From the Guidelines
Sucralose consumption has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes, as evidenced by a recent meta-analysis 1.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of sucralose include:
- Digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, particularly when consumed in large amounts
- Headaches, migraines, or allergic reactions like rashes and swelling after consuming sucralose
Potential Health Risks
Research suggests that sucralose might:
- Disrupt gut bacteria balance, potentially affecting digestive health and metabolism
- Alter blood sugar and insulin levels in some individuals, though this remains controversial
- Have potential impacts on inflammation and metabolic health, with long-term effects still being studied
Special Considerations
People with certain gastrointestinal conditions like IBS or Crohn's disease may be more sensitive to sucralose's effects.
Recommendation
Given the potential health risks associated with sucralose consumption, it is recommended to limit or avoid its use, especially in children, and opt for plain, carbonated, or unsweetened flavored water as an alternative 1. If you experience persistent side effects, consider reducing consumption or eliminating sucralose from your diet. While most people tolerate moderate amounts without issues, individual responses vary based on sensitivity and overall health.
From the Research
Side Effects of Sucralose
- The potential health implications of sucralose, a non-caloric artificial sweetener, have been a subject of controversy, with the World Health Organization (WHO) issuing a global alert in 2023 2.
- Studies have investigated the effects of sucralose on human health, including its absorption, metabolism, and excretion, as well as its impact on microbiome dysbiosis, inflammatory response, liver damage, and toxicity 2, 3.
- Some research has suggested that sucralose may alter glucose, insulin, and glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) levels, potentially affecting glycemic control 3.
- The safety of sucralose has been evaluated in various studies, with some concluding that it is safe for its intended use as a non-caloric sugar alternative 4, 5.
- However, other studies have raised concerns about the potential health risks of sucralose, including its potential to generate toxic compounds when cooked at high temperatures and its possible effects on the gut microflora 3.
Potential Health Risks
- Sucralose has been shown to interact with chemosensors in the alimentary tract, potentially affecting hormone secretion and sweet taste sensation 3.
- The sweetener has also been found to alter the microbial composition in the gastrointestinal tract, with a relatively greater reduction in beneficial bacteria 3.
- Additionally, sucralose and one of its hydrolysis products have been found to be mutagenic at elevated concentrations in several testing methods 3.