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Artificial Sweeteners: A Double-Edged Sword for Gut Microbiome.
Helal F Hetta1, Nizar Sirag2, Hassabelrasoul Elfadil1
1Division of Microbiology, Immunology and Biotechnology, Department of Natural Products and Alternative Medicine, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Tabuk, Tabuk 71491, Saudi Arabia.
Diseases (Basel, Switzerland)
|April 25, 2025
Summary
Artificial sweeteners (NNS) may disrupt the gut microbiome, potentially reducing beneficial bacteria and increasing harmful ones. Human studies show mixed results, highlighting the need for more research on NNS safety and gut health.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Nutrition Science
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- The human gut microbiome is vital for overall health.
- Artificial sweeteners, or non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS), are increasingly scrutinized for their impact on gut microbial balance.
- Understanding the NNS-gut microbiome interaction is crucial for dietary guidance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize current evidence on the relationship between NNS and the gut microbiome.
- To highlight potential benefits and risks associated with NNS consumption.
- To emphasize the need for targeted research for safe and effective NNS use.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review using PubMed and Google Scholar.
- Searched for studies on artificial sweeteners and gut microbiota.
- Utilized keywords: Gut Microbiome, gut microbiota, Eubiosis, Dysbiosis, Artificial Sweeteners, Nonnutritive Sweeteners.
Main Results:
- NNS effects on the gut microbiome are inconsistent; animal studies show decreased beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus) and increased harmful bacteria (e.g., Clostridium difficile, E. coli).
- Observed disruptions in short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production and gut hormone signaling in animal models.
- Human studies indicate milder or no significant changes, suggesting limitations in translating animal findings to humans due to variations in study design, dosage, and sweetener type.
Conclusions:
- NNS offer benefits like reduced caloric intake and improved blood sugar control.
- Concerns exist regarding NNS impact on gut microbiome health, including reduced beneficial bacteria and increased pathogenic strains.
- Disruptions in SCFA production and metabolic pathways highlight the intricate link between diet and gut health, warranting caution with NNS consumption.
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