Popular Sugar Substitutes Linked to Faster Brain Aging in New Study

A study published in Neurology on July 18, 2026, found that adults with higher intake of common artificial sweeteners showed a more rapid decline in memory and thinking skills, particularly among those under 60 or with diabetes, prompting further research into their long-term cognitive effects.

The top 3

1. Aspartame: Widely Used in Diet Drinks: Aspartame, approved in 1974 and sold under brand names like Equal and NutraSweet, is about 200 times sweeter than sugar and commonly found in diet sodas, chewing gum, and light yogurts.
2. Sucralose: Found in Many 'Sugar-Free' Items: Sucralose, sold as Splenda, is approximately 600 times sweeter than table sugar and is approved for use in 15 food categories since 1998, including baked goods, beverages, and chewing gum.
3. Saccharin: Oldest Artificial Sweetener: Saccharin, discovered in 1879, is over 300 times sweeter than sucrose, has a negligible calorie count, and was widely adopted during World War I sugar shortages, commonly sold as Sweet'N Low.

Sources

• sciencedaily.com

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