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The Association Between Artificial Sweeteners and Obesity.
Michelle Pearlman1, Jon Obert2, Lisa Casey3
1Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines, K5.136, Dallas, TX, 75390, USA. pearlmanmi@gmail.com.
Current Gastroenterology Reports
|November 22, 2017
Summary
Artificial sweeteners, intended to aid weight loss, may paradoxically contribute to obesity by altering the gut microbiome and metabolism. Research indicates they can increase appetite and weight gain, contrary to marketing claims.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic health
- Nutritional science
- Microbiome research
Background:
- Artificial sweeteners were developed to combat insulin resistance and obesity.
- Current data suggests a potential link between artificial sweetener consumption and adverse metabolic outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review the epidemiology of obesity and artificial sweetener evolution.
- Examine the impact of artificial sweeteners on the microbiome, gut-brain axis, glucose homeostasis, and energy consumption.
- Discuss the contribution of these factors to obesity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of epidemiological data.
- Analysis of recent research on artificial sweeteners' effects.
- Synthesis of findings related to metabolic syndrome and obesity.
Main Results:
- Artificial sweeteners may promote metabolic syndrome and obesity, contrary to their intended use.
- Evidence suggests alterations in host microbiome, decreased satiety, and impaired glucose homeostasis.
- Consumption is associated with increased caloric intake and weight gain.
Conclusions:
- The effects of artificial sweeteners on metabolic health warrant further investigation.
- Future research should explore novel sweeteners and long-term impacts, focusing on microbiome changes.
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