Recent studies have revealed a shocking link between the consumption of artificial sweeteners and accelerated cognitive decline. Neurology experts highlight that a diet rich in these sugar substitutes can put your brain health at serious risk.

What's in These Sweeteners?

The culprits include widely used sweeteners such as aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, and tagatose. These ingredients lurk in many ultraprocessed foods and beverages, including your favorite sodas, protein bars, yogurts, and low-calorie desserts.

Shocking Findings: How Much Sweetener is Too Much?

According to the research, individuals who consumed more than 190 milligrams of these sweeteners daily for a year experienced a staggering 62% faster decline in cognitive functions, such as memory and thinking skills, compared to those who limited their intake to just 20 mg. For perspective, a single can of diet soda contains about 200 mg of sweeteners while a packet of Sweet’N Low offers 20 mg.

The Age Factor: Who is Most Affected?

The cognitive decline observed was particularly striking among younger individuals—those under 60. Additionally, the findings were even more pronounced in people with diabetes, who often turn to these sweeteners as sugar alternatives.

Experts Weigh In on These Findings