Let’s be honest: there are plenty of those looking to satisfy their needs without the guilt of consuming added sugars. Therefore, artificial sweeteners such as Splenda may seem like a viable option. However, a recent study suggests that these sweeteners may do more harm than anybody expected. The study focused on sucralose, a chemical that exists in Splenda, and revealed its potential to cause cancer and damage to the DNA, as Prevention.com reveals.
The research examined the effects of sucralose-6-acetate. For those unaware, it’s a molecule produced when sucralose is broken down in the gut. The findings indicated genotoxicity, DNA damage, and even harm to the gut lining and increased gene activity linked to oxidative stress, inflammation, and carcinogenicity.
Artificial sweeteners are not healthy
The new results add to the growing body of evidence highlighting the negative impacts of artificial sweeteners, including a high risk of heart disease and cancer. It’s important to be aware of the potential dangers associated with sucralose and other artificial sweeteners.
Sucralose is a common substance found in various food products, approved by the FDA as a general-purpose sweetener. However, the study raises concerns about its safety despite the FDA’s suggested acceptable daily intake.
While the FDA recommends a specific daily intake of sucralose, it’s essential to consider the new research findings and exercise caution when consuming artificial sweeteners such as Splenda on a daily basis.
One of the interesting facts about Splenda is that it was discovered by accident. Its development began in 1976 when researchers at Queen Elizabeth College in London were investigating a new insecticide compound. However, during the testing process, they accidentally tasted the compound and realized it was incredibly sweet. This unexpected discovery eventually led to the creation of sucralose, meaning the main ingredient in Splenda, which is now widely used as a sugar substitute across the world.
Update:
We’d like to include Heartland Food Products Group’s statement attributed to a spokesperson for the company.
The FDA and health organizations across the globe have confirmed that sucralose is safe after years of research and over 100 studies. The researchers behind this flawed study did not report that they found sucralose-6-acetate (S6A) in Splenda because there is no S6A in Splenda, which is manufactured in the U.S. and rigorously and routinely tested. Any suggestion that this study proves that S6A poses a health risk to those who consume Splenda is false and irresponsible fearmongering. Millions of consumers rely on Splenda as an important part of achieving their health goals and they deserve accurate information, supported by sound science, so they can safely manage their personal health.
