A new study has raised concerns about the impact of artificial sweeteners on cognitive health, warning that they may accelerate brain ageing. The study, published in the journal Neurology, found that regular consumption of artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and saccharin, could impair memory and word recall, leading to faster cognitive decline.

The research highlighted that people who consumed the highest amounts of these sweeteners experienced a 62% faster decline in cognitive abilities. This decline is equivalent to about 1.6 years of brain ageing. The study focused on individuals who consumed an average of 191 milligrams of artificial sweeteners daily, which is about 1 teaspoon. For context, a can of diet soda typically contains 200-300 milligrams of sweeteners, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The study followed nearly 13,000 people in Brazil, with an average age of 52, over an average period of eight years. Researchers analyzed dietary habits and performed several cognitive tests during this period. The sweeteners studied were not only found in diet sodas but also in flavoured water, low-calorie desserts, and energy drinks.

Participants who consumed the most sweeteners experienced a 62% faster rate of cognitive decline. Those in the middle tier, with moderate consumption, saw a 35% faster decline, equivalent to 1.3 years of ageing. In contrast, individuals who consumed the least amount of sweeteners showed a slower rate of cognitive decline.

The study suggests that long-term consumption of low- or no-calorie sweeteners, especially artificial ones, may have significant long-term effects on cognitive function.

In addition to the cognitive health risks, an Australian study published last month found that drinking just one can of diet soda could increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 38%. The research also noted that the risk associated with artificially sweetened soft drinks was higher than that linked to sugary drinks, which were associated with a 23% increased risk.

These findings suggest that while sugar-free alternatives like diet sodas may offer low-calorie benefits, they may carry long-term health risks that could affect not only metabolism but also brain function.

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