Artificial sweeteners linked to brain changes that boost appetite
Image credit: myriamzilles via Unsplash
A new study published in the journal Nature Metabolism has found that artificial sweeteners commonly used in diet drinks may alter brain activity in a way that increases appetite. Researchers observed that consumption of sweeteners affected brain regions tied to food cravings and reward, potentially leading to increased calorie intake. These findings raise concerns about the long-term impact of artificial sweeteners on weight management and eating behavior, calling for more research into their effects on the brain.
Source
Chakravartti, S.P., Jann, K., Veit, R. et al. Non-caloric sweetener effects on brain appetite regulation in individuals across varying body weights. Nat Metab 7, 574–585 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s42255-025-01227-8
Additional Reading
https://keck.usc.edu/news/calorie-free-sweeteners-can-disrupt-the-brains-appetite-signals/
https://www.verywellhealth.com/sucralose-triggers-appetite-11707506