Artificial sweeteners used in soft drinks, sugar-free chewing gum, and diet products have always been a subject of debate, but a recent study has revealed findings that are truly alarming. According to the latest studies from 2025, the sweetness in soft drinks and chewing gum is contributing to an increase in heart disease and a decline in brain function. Sweeteners like aspartame, erythritol, and xylitol are known to increase the risk of heart inflammation, heart attacks, and strokes. Let’s delve into this in more detail.
What are Artificial Sweeteners?
It’s worth noting that artificial sweeteners are up to 200 times sweeter than sugar, but contain very few calories. They primarily include aspartame (found in diet coke and sugar-free products), erythritol and xylitol (found in sugar-free gum, candy, and toothpaste), sucralose, and saccharin. They are found in diet sodas, chewing gum, yogurt, bakery items, and many packaged foods.
How do they harm the heart?
Aspartame’s effects on mice were investigated in a 2025 study published in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. The study found that even little doses weakened the heart by thickening the cardiac muscles. In the meantime, research at the Cleveland Clinic (2024–2025) revealed that xylitol and erythritol induce blood platelets to aggregate, resulting in blood clots. Heart attacks and strokes may result from these clots moving to the brain or heart. Regular users of these sweeteners are up to 50% more likely to have a heart attack.
According to Dr. Mohit Gupta, Professor of Cardiology at GB Pant Hospital in Delhi, sweeteners like erythritol and xylitol increase blood clotting. These are common in sugar-free products, but they are increasing the risk of heart problems. These pose a greater risk for diabetic patients.
How does it affect the brain?
A study published in the September 2025 issue of the Neurology journal researched 12,700 people over 8 years. It found that those who consumed more artificial sweeteners experienced a rapid decline in memory and cognitive abilities. A decline of more than 62 percent was observed in the memory of such individuals. In those under 60 years of age, a negative impact was observed on verbal fluency and cognition.
Here are some ways to protect yourself:
- Read labels: Check for sweeteners in sugar-free or diet products.
- Use less: Choose natural sweeteners like fruits and honey.
- Consult your doctor: Seek advice from your doctor if you have diabetes or heart problems.
- Balanced diet: Drink plenty of water and eat fruits and vegetables.
- Focus on fitness: Exercise regularly and get enough sleep.
