Cambridge tests 39 sweeteners and finds direct effects on gut bacteria

Scientists at the University of Cambridge tested 39 sweeteners against 25 gut bacterial species and found that about three-quarters altered the growth of at least one species, with some suppressing beneficial microbes. The combination of isosteviol and the antidepressant duloxetine strongly suppressed two key gut bacteria and disrupted a simulated microbiome. The experiments were done in the lab, not in humans.

• About 75% of the 39 sweeteners changed growth of at least one of 25 bacterial species
• Isosteviol plus duloxetine suppressed two bacteria tied to digestion and blood sugar
• Combinations produced over 100 effect changes: 34 stronger, 68 weaker
• Findings published in Molecular Systems Biology, based on in vitro experiments