The effects of artificial sweeteners on type 2 diabetes glycemic parameters

Type 2 diabetes is a group of heterogeneous disorders characterized by various degrees of insulin resistance, impaired insulin secretion, and increased glucose production. Sugar substitute are known as a food additive that provides a sweet taste like sugar without excess energy. Some sugar substitutes are naturally produced, and others are synthesized. Those resources which are not natural are generally called artificial sweeteners.

The present study was carried out to assess the effects of artificial sweeteners in diabetic patients by considering the level of blood sugar before and after intervention.

A total of 30 patients were included in this clinical trial. The patients were asked not to use the artificial sweeteners for 3 months and then were asked to consume diabetic especial diet containing artificial sweeteners such as sugar, biscuit and candy under the supervision of food specialist for the next three months.

The average Fasting blood glucose of diabetic patients increased from (121.03±25.3 mg/dl) to (152 ± 42 mg/dl) at the end of second trimester. Also, two hours postprandial glucose test showed a significant increase from (164.4±44.4 mg/dL) to (222±72 mg/dL). Interestingly, the average of HbA1C levels increased since (6.89 ± 0.9%) to (7.40 ±1.2%) at the end of second trimesters.

The results indicated that consuming food gradients containing artificial sweeteners may increase blood sugar in diabetic patients.