Study Links Sugar Substitutes to Cognitive Decline in Middle-Aged Adults
A recent study published by the American Academy of Neurology has found a potential link between the consumption of artificial sweeteners and cognitive decline, particularly in individuals under 60 and those with diabetes. The study observed 12,772 adults over eight years, focusing on seven common artificial sweeteners, including erythritol, aspartame, and saccharin. Participants who consumed higher amounts of these sweeteners experienced a faster decline in memory and cognitive skills compared to those who consumed less. The study suggests that midlife could be a critical period where long-term dietary habits impact brain aging. However, the study is observational and does not establish a direct causal relationship between sweeteners and cognitive decline.