Sucralose is an artificial sweetener that has gained popularity as a low-calorie alternative to sugar. It is commonly used in foods and beverages labeled as “sugar-free” and “diet”.

Sucralose was first discovered in 1976 and was approved for use as a food additive by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1999. It is derived from sugar, but it is chemically modified to make it non-caloric. This means that consuming sucralose does not raise blood sugar levels or contribute to calorie intake.

Several studies have been conducted on the safety of sucralose, and the results have been largely positive. The FDA has declared sucralose to be safe for human consumption, and it has been approved for use in over 80 countries around the world.

However, there are some concerns about the possible health effects of consuming sucralose over a long period of time. Here are some of the key issues that researchers have been studying:

Metabolic changes: Some studies have suggested that consuming sucralose may alter the way the body metabolizes glucose and other sugars. For example, a 2013 study in rats found that long-term consumption of sucralose led to an increase in body weight, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance. However, more research is needed to determine whether this applies to humans.

Gut health: Another area of concern is the impact of sucralose on the gut microbiome. A 2018 study found that sucralose consumption led to changes in gut bacteria in mice, which could have negative effects on metabolism and overall health. More research is needed to determine whether similar effects occur in humans.

Cancer risk: Some animal studies have raised concerns about a potential link between sucralose and cancer. For example, a 2016 study found that high doses of sucralose led to an increased risk of leukemia in mice. However, the relevance of these findings to humans is unclear, and the overall body of research does not suggest a strong link between sucralose and cancer risk.

Overall, the evidence suggests that sucralose is safe for human consumption in moderate amounts. The FDA has set an acceptable daily intake (ADI) of 5 mg/kg of body weight per day, which means that a 150-pound person could consume up to 340 mg of sucralose per day without any known health risks.

However, as with any food additive, it is important to use sucralose in moderation and in the context of a balanced diet. Excessive consumption of any sweetener, artificial or natural, can lead to negative health outcomes, including weight gain and metabolic issues.

If you are concerned about the health effects of sucralose or other artificial sweeteners, speak with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian. They can help you make informed choices about your diet based on your individual needs and goals.