Another Artificial Sweetener Under Scanner: May Cause Potential DNA Damage And Leaky Gut

In a recent development, a commonly used artificial sweetener, sucralose, has come under scrutiny due to potential health risks. Following the World Health Organisation's declaration of the potentially cancer-causing nature of aspartame, a new study conducted by researchers at North Carolina State University has revealed that sucralose can produce a chemical called sucralose-6-acetate during digestion, which has genotoxic properties, meaning it can damage DNA. Moreover, the study found that both sucralose and sucralose-6-acetate can contribute to increased intestinal permeability, commonly known as "leaky gut," allowing substances to enter the bloodstream.

These findings raise concerns about the safety of sucralose consumption. Susan Schiffman, the corresponding author of the study, points out that even trace amounts of sucralose-6-acetate in a single daily drink sweetened with sucralose can exceed the European Food Safety Authority's threshold for toxicological concern for genotoxic substances. Additionally, the study highlights that the amount of sucralose-6-acetate produced as metabolites after consuming sucralose is not taken into account.

Given the mounting evidence of potential risks associated with sucralose, Schiffman emphasises the need to re-evaluate its safety and regulatory status. As a precautionary measure, she encourages individuals to avoid products containing sucralose. This revelation calls for a closer examination of the effects of sucralose on human health and prompts a reconsideration of its usage as an artificial sweetener.