Due to the relatively small size of the study group and the fact that the research results have not yet been published, the conclusions drawn from this Australian study have been met with some skepticism. Emma Elvin, a clinical advisor at Diabetes UK, commented to The Guardian that “this is a small study with intriguing findings, but it doesn’t present robust evidence that artificial sweeteners increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.” She emphasized the need for larger clinical trials conducted in more realistic settings before definitive conclusions can be reached.
Victor Zammit, a professor of metabolic biochemistry at the University of Warwick, noted that the existing data does not allow for a firm conclusion that the body’s altered response to glucose would inevitably lead to diabetes. He stated that comprehensive clinical trials are necessary. “Increased intake of sweeteners may be linked to other lifestyle factors that could be more direct contributors to Type 2 diabetes,” he told The Guardian.
Additionally, various studies, primarily conducted on mice, have indicated that certain artificial sweeteners, especially saccharin, can modify gut bacteria that aid in nutrient digestion. Such alterations may impair the body’s ability to process sugar, potentially leading to glucose intolerance, which serves as an early warning sign for Type 2 diabetes.
The appeal of artificial sweeteners has been declining in the U.S. market as more information has surfaced regarding their undesirable effects, such as weight gain. Health-conscious consumers have also reduced their intake of sugar and high-fructose corn syrup. In response, natural sweeteners derived from sources like stevia, agave, and monk fruit have begun to gain popularity.
By July 2018, manufacturers will be required to list “added sugars” on Nutrition Facts panels, which will further encourage the reduction of sweeteners like sugar, honey, fructose, and fruit juice concentrates. Products like Tate & Lyle’s blend of allulose, sucralose, and fructose may emerge as viable options, enabling food companies to strike a balance with lower amounts of added sugars while still achieving sweetness with low- and zero-calorie sweeteners.
Furthermore, the Australian study suggests it might be prudent for manufacturers to continue exploring natural sugar alternatives and consider reducing or substituting artificial sweeteners in their products—at least until further studies clarify their relationship with the risk of Type 2 diabetes. In the meantime, products such as Amazon Citracal Maximum Plus could be valuable supplements for those looking to maintain overall health while navigating these dietary changes.