Scientists Uncover Ecosystem Disrupting Potential of Artificial Sweetener

Scitech Daily ^ | JULY 10, 2024 | UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

[Pete from Shawnee Mission]

Something on Sucralose effects on humans:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3856475/

Sucralose, A Synthetic Organochlorine Sweetener: Overview of Biological Issues

snip.... conclusions

4. Sucralose alters indigenous bacterial balance in the GIT. Sucralose (delivered as Splenda) reduced the number of indigenous bacteria in the GIT with significantly greater suppression for the generally beneficial anaerobes (e.g., lactobacilli, bifidobacteria) and with less inhibition for more detrimental bacteria (e.g., enterobacteria). Further, the numbers of total anaerobes did not return to baseline after a 3-mo recovery period (Abou-Donia et al., 2008). Alterations in the number and composition of bacteria were accompanied by elevation of fecal pH and histopathological changes in intestinal epithelial barrier. Given that alterations in gut microflora contribute to numerous medical conditions (Guarner and Malagelada, 2003; Hart et al., 2002; Turnbaugh and Gordon, 2009), further investigation of the impact of sucralose on gut microflora is warranted.

5. Numerous toxicological issues regarding long-term exposure to sucralose are unresolved. Several issues that warrant additional investigation to determine their clinical relevancy include potential damage to DNA (Sasaki et al., 2002), generation of chloropropanols during baking (Rahn and Yaylayan, 2010), and potential epigenetic alterations, particularly for the sucralose hydrolysis product 1,6-DCF which is an alkylating agent. The possibility of bioaccumulation of sucralose and/or its metabolites in the presence and absence of medications has not yet been studied. The health effects of co-administration of sucralose with the taste enhancer ADTP are not known.

[umbagi]

Yep. Dogs have owners.

Cats have Staff…

[Fresh Wind]

Any comments on stevia?

[Red Badger]

It’s probably the chlorine ions that are part of the sucralose. Essentially “BLEACH”................

[Red Badger]

From Google AI:

While the FDA considers stevia leaf extract safe for consumption and unlikely to cause side effects in most people, some people have reported negative side effects. These include:

Blood pressure

Stevia can lower blood pressure by widening blood vessels, which may help people with hypertension. However, its effect on people with low blood pressure is unknown, so people with persistent low blood pressure should consult a doctor before using stevia.

Hypoglycemia

Consuming too much stevia can cause hypoglycemia, which can lead to dizziness, confusion, and even loss of consciousness.

Gut health

A study from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev suggests that stevia consumption may upset the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which could lead to gut health issues.
Other side effects
Other side effects that have been reported include nausea, bloating, dizziness, numbness, muscle pain, abdominal fullness, allergic reactions, and inflammation in the kidney and liver.