Some Sugar Substitutes Linked To Faster Cognitive Decline

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American Academy of Neurology

Edited by Sadie Harley, reviewed by Robert Egan

Sept. 3, 2025

Some sugar substitutes may come with unexpected consequences for long-term brain health.

A study published in Neurology examined seven low- and no-calorie sweeteners and found that people who consumed the highest amounts experienced faster declines in thinking and memory skills compared to those who consumed the lowest amounts.

The link was even stronger in people with diabetes. While the study showed a link between the use of some artificial sweeteners and cognitive decline, it did not prove that they were a cause.

The artificial sweeteners examined in the study were aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol and tagatose. These are mainly found in ultra-processed foods like flavored water, soda, energy drinks, yogurt and low-calorie desserts. Some are also used as a standalone sweetener.

"Low- and no-calorie sweeteners are often seen as a healthy alternative to sugar, however our findings suggest certain sweeteners may have negative effects on brain health over time," said study author Claudia Kimie Suemoto, MD, Ph.D., of the University of São Paulo in Brazil.

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READ MORE: Phys.org