From the Guidelines
Sucralose is likely to have a negative impact on the gut microbiome, particularly when consumed in high amounts or by individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions, as suggested by recent studies 1. The use of sucralose, an artificial sweetener commonly sold as Splenda, has been a topic of interest in recent years due to its potential effects on the gut microbiome. While the FDA and other regulatory agencies have deemed it safe for consumption, some research indicates that it may reduce beneficial gut bacteria in certain individuals and potentially alter glucose metabolism.
- Key findings from a 2019 study published in Pediatrics suggest that the long-term safety of non-nutritive sweeteners, including sucralose, in childhood has not been assessed in humans 1.
- A 2016 review published in Circulation notes that artificial and non-nutritive sweeteners, such as sucralose, may not be benign and could have potential impacts on cognitive processes, oral-gastrointestinal taste receptors, and the gut microbiome 1. Some studies have shown that sucralose can affect the gut microbiome, particularly when consumed in high amounts or by individuals with pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions.
- However, it is essential to note that the research in this area is still evolving, and most health authorities maintain that sucralose is safe for the general population when consumed within recommended limits. If you're concerned about potential microbiome effects, you might consider limiting intake to moderate levels (staying below the FDA's acceptable daily intake of 5 mg per kg of body weight), or choosing alternative sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit.
- People with certain gastrointestinal conditions might be more sensitive to sucralose's effects, and healthcare providers should be aware of these potential risks when advising patients about non-nutritive sweetener use 1.
From the Research
Effects of Sucralose on Gut Microbiome
- The consumption of sucralose, a non-nutritive sweetener, has been shown to have varying effects on the gut microbiome in different studies 2, 3, 4, 5.
- A review of experimental studies and clinical trials found that sucralose, along with saccharin and stevia, can alter the composition of the gut microbiota 2.
- However, a short-term study on healthy adults found that consuming high doses of sucralose for 7 days did not alter glycaemic control, insulin resistance, or gut microbiome 3.
- Another review of the existing scientific evidence on the effects of saccharin and sucralose consumption on gut microbiota in humans suggested that in vitro and animal model studies indicate a dose-dependent relationship between the intake of both sweeteners and gut microbiota, affecting both diversity and composition 4.
- A ten-week clinical trial on healthy young adults found that sucralose consumption altered the abundance of Firmicutes, increased serum insulin, and altered glucose levels during an oral glucose tolerance test, indicating gut dysbiosis 5.
Key Findings
- Sucralose consumption can alter the gut microbiome, but the effects may vary depending on the duration and dose of consumption 2, 4, 5.
- Short-term consumption of sucralose may not have significant effects on the gut microbiome, but long-term consumption may lead to changes in the abundance of certain bacterial species 3, 5.
- The effects of sucralose on the gut microbiome may be influenced by individual responses and basal microbiota-dependent responses 3, 4.