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Artificial sweeteners have long been marketed as a healthier alternative to sugar, especially for people managing diabetes or aiming to cut calories. But as new research emerges, scientists are beginning to question whether these sugar substitutes may have unintended effects on the brain.

A recent study published in Neurology, the journal of the American Academy of Neurology, has added to this growing debate. The study found that certain artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, and sorbitol, were linked to small declines in memory and cognitive performance. The researchers suggested that these changes were roughly equivalent to 1.6 years of additional brain ageing.

While the findings don’t confirm that sweeteners directly cause memory loss, they do highlight the need for more detailed, long-term studies.

What are artificial sweeteners?

Artificial sweeteners come in many forms, powders, tablets, and liquids and are known by names such as sucralose, erythritol, and aspartame. They are widely used in processed foods, beverages, and even medications, reaching millions of consumers around the world.

People with diabetes often turn to these substitutes to manage blood sugar levels, since artificial sweeteners typically do not cause spikes in glucose like regular sugar does.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved several of these sweeteners, including saccharin, sucralose, aspartame, xylitol, erythritol, stevia, and monk fruit, as safe when consumed within recommended limits.

Why researchers are taking a closer look

Despite their official approval, new research is beginning to explore how artificial sweeteners might influence long-term health, beyond just blood sugar control. The Neurology study has particularly sparked discussion about their potential connection to brain aging and cognitive decline.

The takeaway

Although artificial sweeteners continue to be considered safe by global regulatory agencies, emerging evidence suggests that moderation is key. Consumers, especially those using these products daily, may benefit from staying informed as more data becomes available.

For now, experts agree that maintaining an overall balanced diet, minimising ultra-processed foods, and prioritising natural sources of sweetness, such as fruits, remain the most sustainable ways to support both physical and cognitive health.

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