Questions are always raised about artificial sweeteners used in cold drinks, sugar-free chewing gum and diet products, but now a study has revealed something that will scare you. In fact, the latest studies of 2025 have revealed that the sweetness of cold drinks and chewing gum is increasing heart diseases and reducing brain function. Let us tell you that sweeteners like aspartame, erythritol, xylitol increase the risk of inflammation in the heart, heart attack and stroke. Let us tell about it in detail.
What are artificial sweeteners?
It is noteworthy that artificial sweeteners are 200 times sweeter than sugar, but they have very less calories. These mainly include aspartame (in diet coke, sugar free products), erythritol and xylitol (in sugar free gum, candy, toothpaste), sucralose and saccharin. These are found in diet soda, chewing gum, yogurt, bakery items and many packaged foods.
How do damages cause damage to the heart?
In a 2025 study in Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy, the effect of aspartame was observed on rats. Investigation revealed that even in low doses, the heart muscles became thick, due to which the heart becomes weak. At the same time, Cleveland Clinic studies (2024-2025) revealed that erythritol and xylitol stick to blood platelets, which leads to the formation of blood clots. These clots go to the heart or brain and cause attack or stroke. In those who consume them excessively, the risk of heart attack increases by 50 percent.
According to Dr. Mohit Gupta, Professor of Cardiology at GB Pant Hospital, Delhi, sweeteners like erythritol and xylitol increase blood clotting. These are common in sugar free products, but are increasing heart risk. Due to this, the risk is higher in patients with diabetes.
How does it affect the brain?
In the Neurology Journal study of September 2025, research was conducted on 12700 people for 8 years. It was seen that memory and thinking ability decreased rapidly in those who consumed more sweeteners. More than 62 percent decline was seen in the memory of such people. At the same time, adverse effects on verbal fluency and cognition were seen in people below 60 years of age.
These are the methods of prevention
- Read the label: Check for sweeteners in sugar-free or diet products.
- Use less: Choose natural sweeteners like fruits, honey.
- Doctor’s advice: Consult a doctor if you have diabetes or heart problems.
- Balanced Diet: Eat more water, fruits and vegetables.
- Focus on fitness: Maintain exercise and good sleep.
Also read- Cancer is becoming a big threat for India, there will be 20 lakh patients in the country by 2040.
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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