People fighting weight issues often consume low-calorie sweeteners think it’s a healthier option. However, a new study suggests that these individuals could be promoting metabolic syndrome and diabetes.
The study, conducted by researchers at George Washington University, discovered a close link between consumption of artificial sweeteners and metabolic syndrome, which occurs when someone experiences insulin resistance, elevated cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of blood clots. Metabolic syndrome is normally diagnosed in people who are overweight or obese.
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Metabolic syndrome should be taken seriously. It raises the risk of heart attack and stroke. It can also increase the risk of diabetes by three to five times.
According to Associate Professor of Medicine at George Washington University, doctor Sabyasachi Sen, as the dose of sucralose increased, fat droplet accumulation increased in more cells. Sen told Science Daily “This most likely occurs by increasing glucose entry into cells through increased activity of genes called glucose transponders.”
Sen and the researchers also looked at human fat samples from obese people who consumed low-calorie sweeteners and discovered similar gene expression. The team has said that the findings are concerning, especially for those who are obese because they are already at an increased risk of heart attacks and stroke.
To carry out the study, the researchers took stem cells from human fat tissue and tested sucralose on them. They put the cells in Petri dishes for 12 days in a substance that promotes fat production to copy an environment that promotes obesity. At a sucralose dose of 0.2 millimolar, which is equal to about four cans of diet soda per day, they found increased expression of genes that are indicators of fat and inflammation.
The team also analyzed biopsy samples from different individual’s abdominal fat. Those who were obese and consumed low-calorie sweeteners showed significant increases in glucose transport into cells and “overexpression” of fat-producing genes, compared to those who did not consume low-calorie sweeteners.
Artificial Sweeteners Are Causing Metabolic Dysfunction
Sen has stated that he is “confident” following this study, as well as a previous study that showed similar results, that sweeteners are causing “metabolic dysfunction.” He has also reported that in a new cell culture experiment, he discovered that sucralose seems to promote oxygen radical accumulation that causes disease and inflammation. These radicals can slow down metabolism, which can lead to fat accumulation. This just might explain how sucralose interferes with metabolism.
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It is estimated that 20 to 25 percent of the world population has metabolic syndrome. Most of the disorders associated with metabolic syndrome don’t have symptoms; however, if your blood sugar is high, you could have symptoms of diabetes, such as increased thirst, urination, and blurred vision.
If you think you might be at risk for metabolic syndrome, talk to your doctor about testing.
Related:
- Grilling and Other High-Temperature Cooking Increases Risk of Type 2 Diabetes and High Blood Pressure
- Diabetes-related insulin sensitivity improves with a vegan diet
Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.
