A new study from Anglia Ruskin University in the U.K. has found that the artificial sweetener neotame may damage healthy cells in the human intestinal tract, potentially leading to health problems such as irritable bowel syndrome and sepsis. Neotame is a sweetener often used in baked goods, food products, and as a tabletop flavoring. The study has prompted fresh risk/benefit considerations of neotame as a sweetener, as it can help people avoid conditions such as overweight and obesity, which are drivers of multiple chronic issues. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved neotame for human consumption in 2002, and it is widely used in a variety of products.
Neotame is up to 13,000 times sweeter than sucrose, and it is often used as a sugar substitute in various food products. However, the study from Anglia Ruskin University suggests that neotame can directly damage epithelial cells in the intestinal wall, as well as impact the diversity of bacteria in the gut. The damage caused by neotame to the gut wall can weaken the integrity of the barrier, leading to a leak of materials from the gut into the bloodstream. Additionally, biofilms caused by neotame exposure can trigger a heightened stress response in the body and increase resistance to antibiotics.
While artificial sweeteners like neotame can be useful tools in improving conditions such as obesity and diabetes by reducing sugar intake, more research is needed to fully understand how these substances interact with the human body. Registered Dietitian Kristin Kirkpatrick, MS, RDN, points out that most research has found that sweeteners like stevia, monkfruit, and sucralose are not harmful when consumed in moderation. However, it is important to consider the body of evidence as a whole when evaluating the potential health effects of artificial sweeteners.
Despite the potential benefits of artificial sweeteners in reducing sugar consumption and aiding in weight loss, consuming excessive amounts of sweeteners can still lead to adverse health effects. Kirkpatrick suggests that a balanced dietary pattern is crucial when considering the use of artificial sweeteners to replace sugary, calorie-dense foods. While many studies have found correlations between artificial sweeteners and health issues, it is essential to differentiate between associations and causal links. More randomized controlled trials are needed to thoroughly assess the safety and impact of artificial sweeteners on human health.
Neotame, as an alternative to aspartame, was developed to provide a more stable and sweet version of traditional sweeteners, making it particularly suited for baked goods and other food manufacturing processes. However, the potential risks associated with neotame as identified in the new study highlight the importance of further research into the effects of artificial sweeteners on the human body. While artificial sweeteners may offer a calorie-free alternative to sugar, it is crucial to consider individual dietary patterns and overall health when including these substances in one’s diet. Kristin Kirkpatrick emphasizes the need for a comprehensive evaluation of all variables, rather than labeling artificial sweeteners as inherently “bad,” to make informed decisions about dietary choices.