Popular sweeteners may leave effects that last for generations

Two widely used zero-calorie sweeteners, sucralose and stevia, may have effects that linger far longer than the sweet taste itself. In mice, researchers found that both sweeteners altered the gut microbiome, reduced beneficial compounds produced by gut bacteria, and changed the activity of genes involved in metabolism and inflammation. Some of those changes were also detected in later generations that had never consumed the sweeteners themselves.

Popular sweeteners may leave effects that last for generations. Popular sweeteners may leave effects that last for generations Science News from research organizations Popular sweeteners may leave effects that last for generations Popular zero-calorie sweeteners changed the gut and metabolism of mice, with some effects unexpectedly echoing into future generations. These additives provide sweetness without the calories found in sugar.

Some health organizations have begun raising questions about their possible long-term effects, including whether they may disrupt energy metabolism and eventually contribute to a higher risk of diabetes or cardiovascular disease. The study suggests that sucralose and stevia, two widely used sweeteners, can alter the gut microbiome and gene activity in ways that may affect metabolic health. Some of these biological changes were also observed in later generations.

"We found it intriguing that despite the growing consumption of these additives, the prevalence of obesity and metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance has not declined," said Dr.