It's a nothing article.
We looked at existing studies. Something is happening, we're not sure what. More research needed.
this post was submitted on 09 Jul 2026
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Since the advent of sugar free sodas, obesity and diabetes rates have skyrocketed. People drink gallons of that shit, far more than was ever tested for FDA approval. It's not uncommon to see people in clinic who never drink water, only soda.
data in both animal models and humans suggest that the effects of artificial sweeteners may contribute to metabolic syndrome and the obesity epidemic. Artificial sweeteners appear to change the host microbiome, lead to decreased satiety, and alter glucose homeostasis, and are associated with increased caloric consumption and weight gain. Artificial sweeteners are marketed as a healthy alternative to sugar and as a tool for weight loss. Data however suggests that the intended effects do not correlate with what is seen in clinical practice.
This has been the assumption for some time now.
Body thinks it get sugar. Body produces enzymes, hormones, chemicals, etc to process sugar. No sugar or calories to metabolize. Body hungry.
Non-nutritive sweeteners have been on the suspect list for screwing up your gut bacteria for a long time. I've weeded out most of them and largely stick to allulose but more research is definitely needed. Two things I take good care of now are my gut bacteria and mitochondria.
What is the relative risk of non-nutritive Sweetener vs the amount of real sugar they replace an otherwise identical diet?
Because until you answer that, what are we even discussing....
Cephalic response : insulin goes high anticipating sugar, but the carbs don't arrive, causing blood sugar to come down, causing increased hunger.
How do you take care of tour mitochondria?
Oh... we're back to aRtIfIcIaL sWeEtEnErS bAd again this week?
They have never been good.
At best they are "less bad" then sugar. That's harm reduction not a endorsement.
I.e. just because nicotine patches are less bad then smoking we don't consider them a good long term thing non smokers should use.