Hi FSN Daily readers — welcome to this week’s Weekend Edition!
The safety of sugar substitutes is facing growing scrutiny, with new studies linking some to cardiovascular and neurological risks — and consumers are taking notice.
This week’s Wednesday Weigh-In asked: “Are recent studies on sugar substitutes making you rethink your sweetener habits?”
Let’s look at the poll results, examine the science, and explore the potential risks behind these sweeteners.
🗳️ Poll Results
“Are recent studies on sugar substitutes making you rethink your sweetener habits?”
Here’s how you voted:
Stick to sugar 🍬 – I use real sugar in moderation, accepting the risks: 52.5%
Natural switch 🌿 – I’ve moved to natural options like stevia or monk fruit: 24.2%
Not rethinking 🙂 – I’m not changing anything; I think moderate use is fine: 13.7%
Still using substitutes ⚠️ – I use sugar substitutes, but I’m starting to rethink it: 9.6%
These results suggest widespread caution about artificial sweeteners.
💬 What You Said
Beyond the numbers, your comments shed light on personal experiences and perspectives:
Preference for sugar: “I use real sugar. Of course, if I were diabetic, I would reconsider.”
Health concerns with substitutes: “Fake sugars make me violently ill. I will not consume anything with artificial sugars.”
Natural alternatives: “I also use raw local honey and real maple syrup when baking.”
Skepticism about substitutes: “Too many studies over the years have pointed to the dangers of non-nutritive sweeteners.”
Informed perspective: “As a toxicologist, I consider myself well-informed of any hazards/risks. I strictly do not use artificial sweeteners anymore.”
Most responses showed a distrust in artificial sweeteners, with many saying that they favor natural or traditional options due to health concerns or taste preferences.
🔬 Scientific Insights
Concerns over artificial and alternative sweeteners continue to grow as new research highlights potential health risks.
Below is a summary of key findings from peer-reviewed studies and health organizations:
Erythritol
A June 2025 study in the Journal of Applied Physiology found erythritol may impair brain vascular cell function and increase stroke risk. Researchers observed a 75% rise in reactive oxygen species (which can damage cells) and a 30% increase in endothelin-1, a vasoconstrictor that may restrict blood flow to the brain.
Studies from 2024 linked erythritol to increased platelet reactivity and a higher risk of cardiovascular events, including heart attacks.
Aspartame
A 2023 study from UT Health San Antonio found that boys born to mothers who consumed diet soda or aspartame during pregnancy or breastfeeding were more than three times as likely to be diagnosed with autism.
A separate 2023 study from Florida State University found that aspartame consumption caused learning and memory deficits in mice, even at levels below FDA safety thresholds.
In July 2023, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified aspartame as possibly carcinogenic to humans based on limited evidence.
Sucralose (Splenda)
A June 2023 study from NC State University found sucralose can cause DNA strand breaks (genotoxicity) and increase gene expression linked to inflammation, oxidative stress, and cancer.
Saccharin
Evidence on its carcinogenicity remains mixed. Older studies linked it to bladder cancer in rats, but recent human data are inconclusive.
Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K)
Limited long-term studies exist. Some suggest potential metabolic effects, but more research is needed.
Neotame & Advantame
Both are FDA-approved and considered safe, but there is a lack of robust, long-term human studies.
🌍 Global Health Perspectives
In May 2023, the World Health Organization advised against using non-sugar sweeteners (NSS) for weight control, citing potential increased risks of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases without clear long-term benefits.
A December 2023 review found that artificial sweeteners may disrupt gastrointestinal function, contribute to neurologic symptoms (e.g., headaches, taste alteration), and raise risks for metabolic diseases.
🌿 Natural Sweeteners: A Safer Alternative?
Stevia
Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Generally safe, with occasional digestive sensitivity reported.
Monk Fruit Extract
GRAS. No major risks identified, though long-term data is limited.
Agave Nectar
Naturally derived but high in fructose, which can affect liver function and blood sugar when consumed in excess.
Honey
Natural and antioxidant-rich, but high in calories. Not recommended for infants due to botulism risk.
Maple Syrup
Contains trace minerals but has a similar glycemic impact to sugar. Best consumed in moderation.
🍬 Sugar Alcohols: A Mixed Bag
Xylitol, Sorbitol, and Mannitol are generally safe but may cause bloating, diarrhea, or laxative effects when consumed in excess. Erythritol is also a sugar alcohol.
🏛️ Regulatory Oversight
The FDA regulates artificial sweeteners as food additives, setting acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels based on safety studies:
Aspartame: 50 mg/kg body weight
Sucralose: 5 mg/kg body weight
Erythritol, Stevia, Monk Fruit: GRAS, no ADI set
Final Thoughts
The science is still evolving, but one thing is clear — people want transparency and safer options. Whether you prefer real sugar, stevia, or nothing sweet at all, staying informed matters.
The debate over sugar substitutes reveals a tension between convenience and caution. While artificial sweeteners offer calorie-free sweetness, research on erythritol, aspartame, and sucralose points to potential health trade-offs.
Many of you are choosing natural alternatives or sticking with sugar in moderation — a clear signal that trust and safety drive your choices. As research continues, clearer labeling and stronger oversight will help all of us make more informed decisions.
What’s Your Take?
Have a sweetener preference or story to share? Let us know!
(Keep it respectful; personal attacks or ads will be removed.)
Thanks for reading! We’ll be back on Monday with the latest food safety news.
Jonan Pilet,
Newsletter Editor
Weekend Poll
How do you satisfy your sweet tooth cravings? 🍬
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