Sucralose , a widely used artificial sweetener, raises questions about its health effects, particularly on the gut microbiota and its carcinogenic potential. However, recent studies and scientific meta-analyses confirm that sucralose is safe for human health and has a neutral impact on the gut microbiota.
Impact of Sucralose on the Intestinal Microbiota
The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in our overall health, influencing digestion, the immune system, and even mental health. Concerns have been raised about the effect of artificial sweeteners on this delicate ecosystem. However, extensive research indicates that sucralose has no adverse effects on the gut microbiome. Unlike other artificial sweeteners, sucralose is barely metabolized by gut bacteria , minimizing any possible disruption.
WHO Classification and the Reality of Carcinogenic Risks
In 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified sucralose as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” This classification has raised some concern, but it is important to understand its context. This classification is similar to that given to pickles, a category that includes many common substances that are generally consumed without risk. The term “possibly carcinogenic” indicates that limited evidence exists, but it is not sufficient to conclude that there is a direct and significant relationship between sucralose consumption and the development of cancer in humans. It is important to note that this classification is based on studies where the doses of sucralose consumed were extremely high, well above what is normally ingested by consumers. According to these studies, daily consumption of sucralose should not exceed 15 mg per kilogram of body weight to avoid any potential risk.
To determine the diet drink equivalent to meet the daily threshold of 15 mg per kilogram of body weight of sucralose, it is helpful to know how much sucralose is typically contained in a typical diet drink.
On average, a can of diet drink (about 355 ml) contains about 68 mg of sucralose.
So, a 70 kg person would have to consume about 15 to 16 cans of diet drink per day to reach the daily threshold of 15 mg/kg of sucralose.
It is important to emphasize that this amount is well above the usual daily consumption for most people.
Comparison with Alcohol
To put the risks associated with sucralose into perspective, it is useful to compare its effects to those of alcohol on the gut microbiota and carcinogenic risks.
Alcohol, when consumed regularly, has a significant impact on the gut microbiota. It promotes the growth of certain pathogenic bacteria while reducing overall bacterial diversity, which can lead to imbalances and health problems such as inflammatory bowel disease and metabolic disorders. In addition, alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of several types of cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, liver, breast, and colon.
In comparison, sucralose, although classified as possibly carcinogenic by the WHO, does not pose the same levels of risk as alcohol. Studies show that the amounts of sucralose consumed as part of a normal diet are well below levels associated with potential carcinogenic effects. Furthermore, meta-analyses highlight that the impact of sucralose on the gut microbiota is negligible compared to the disruptions caused by alcohol consumption.
Conclusion
Sucralose is a safe sweetener whose health impact is often misunderstood. Strong scientific evidence shows that it has no adverse effects on the gut microbiota and that its carcinogenic risks are minimal, comparable to those of pickles according to the WHO classification. In comparison, alcohol poses much higher risks to the microbiota and overall health, particularly regarding cancer. Consuming sucralose as an alternative to sugar and alcohol may therefore be a wise strategy for those looking to maintain good health while enjoying sweet flavors without the associated calories.
