Common Sweeteners Can Damage Your Gut Bacteria, Study Finds
Summary
Researchers from the University of Cambridge studied 39 common sweeteners and how they affect gut bacteria. They found that many sweeteners, especially when combined with medications like the antidepressant duloxetine, can change how gut bacteria grow and reduce the variety of bacteria important for digestion.Key Facts
- The study tested 25 types of gut bacteria with 39 different sweeteners, including artificial and natural ones.
- The sweetener isosteviol, from stevia, combined with duloxetine strongly reduced two healthy gut bacteria.
- Reduced diversity of gut bacteria could harm digestive health.
- About 75% of sweeteners changed the growth of at least one type of gut bacteria.
- Over 100 interactions were found where sweeteners acted differently when mixed with other compounds like caffeine or medications.
- Some combinations made sweeteners' effects stronger, while others made them weaker.
- The research was done in lab conditions and does not give direct dietary advice.
- Scientists say sweeteners should be seen as biologically active, not inert substances.
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