Too much sugar can lead to obesity and inflammation in the body, increasing your risk of diabetes, heart disease and other serious health conditions. So, you switched to artificial sweeteners. Unfortunately, fake sugar may have very real consequences. Research indicates a potential link between artificial sweeteners and heart disease.
Here’s what you should know about how artificial sweeteners may sour your heart health.
Three Sweet Threats
In 2022, researchers studied data from more than 100,000 French people. They found a strong relationship between sugar substitutes and cardiovascular disease. Their findings, published in The BMJ, identified three artificial sweeteners that may be problematic.
These are:
- Acesulfame potassium. Nearly 200 times sweeter than table sugar, this sweetens various foods and drinks. It may also increase your risk for coronary artery disease.
- Aspartame. Originally approved to sweeten processed foods such as cold breakfast cereal and chewing gum, it is now a general-purpose sweetener. Just as sweet as acesulfame potassium, it’s associated with a higher likelihood of stroke.
- Sucralose. Found in baked goods, frozen desserts and more, sucralose packs three times the punch as aspartame and 600 times what an equal amount of table sugar offers. Consuming it may increase your risk for coronary artery disease.
The New Artificial Sweetener on the (Chopping) Block
New research published in the European Heart Journal identified another artificial sweetener that may be linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol taken from plant fibers and is used to sweeten mints, cough syrup, toothpaste and many other products. Researchers suspect it may increase your risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attack or stroke.
What to Do About Artificial Sweeteners and Your Heart
If you use sugar substitutes, the link between artificial sweeteners and your heart may have you rethinking your sweet choice. How can you protect your heart and overall health?
- Consider taming your sweet tooth. Your body doesn’t need added sugar to function. For long-term good health, consider reducing the amount of artificial sweeteners in your diet. Grab a piece of fruit to feed your sweet tooth.
- Look for alternatives. Honey gives a natural, sweet boost to tea and other drinks. A splash of 100% fruit juice can also sweeten a glass of water.
- Talk with your primary care provider. With a visit to your primary care provider, you get sweet tips tailored to your specific needs. Already have heart disease? Reach out to your heart and vascular care specialist to make sure your diet doesn’t put your health at risk.
If you’re looking for a helping hand with your heart, find a provider at Union Health today.