Daijiworld Media Network - Santiago

Santiago, Apr 12: Artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and stevia may have negative effects on gut health and gene expression that could extend to future generations, according to a new study conducted on mice.

The research, published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, found that these sugar substitutes may alter the gut microbiome and influence metabolic processes, with some effects persisting across generations.

Previous studies have already linked artificial sweeteners to gastrointestinal and neurological issues such as headaches, as well as metabolic conditions including increased cardiovascular risk and diabetes.

Lead author Francisca Concha Celume of the University of Chile said the findings raise important questions. “Despite the growing consumption of these additives, the prevalence of obesity and metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance has not declined,” she noted, adding that this does not prove causation but suggests a need for deeper understanding.

The study analysed 47 mice divided into three groups, given either plain water or water containing sucralose or stevia in doses comparable to typical human consumption. The mice were then bred for two generations, both of which were provided plain water.

Researchers observed that sucralose consumption affected glucose tolerance, gene expression linked to inflammation and metabolism, and the composition of gut bacteria. These changes were seen to carry over into subsequent generations. The effects of stevia were more limited and largely observed only in the first generation.

Notably, male offspring in the first generation of sucralose-exposed mice showed impaired glucose tolerance, while in the second generation, elevated fasting blood sugar levels were detected in male descendants of sucralose-consuming mice and female descendants of stevia-consuming mice.

The study also found that while microbiome diversity increased, levels of beneficial short-chain fatty acids decreased, indicating reduced production of helpful metabolites by gut bacteria. Sucralose, in particular, was linked to a higher presence of potentially harmful bacterial species and fewer beneficial ones.

Further, sucralose appeared to activate genes associated with inflammation while suppressing those related to metabolism, with effects lasting up to two generations. Stevia also influenced gene expression, though its impact was less pronounced and not sustained beyond one generation.

The researchers emphasised that while the animals did not develop diabetes, the observed changes in glucose regulation and gene activity may act as early biological indicators of increased vulnerability to metabolic and inflammatory conditions, especially under factors such as a high-fat diet.