Study Says Artificial Sweeteners May Be Harming Your Brain – Expert Decodes

Every other household in India has at least one family member who has diabetes. This is the unfortunate reality of the times we live in. Thus, in many homes – sugar is a big ‘NO’. That’s when people look for alternatives for sugar. Some opt for more natural sweeteners such as jaggery, while others go for commercial ones. Artificial sweeteners are thus very common in many kitchens. But are they safe? Well, as per a new study, they may be harming your brain health. Would you like to know more about it? Then this article is for you.

A study was published in November 2025 in Neurology – the medical journal of The American Academy of Neurology (2025). It mentioned that the consumption of artificial sweeteners is directly linked to brain ageing. The study also stated a link between regular consumption of artificial sweeteners and faster cognitive decline. It especially highlighted the potential harms of sweeteners such as aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame potassium, erythritol, sorbitol, and xylitol. Older research also mentioned that lots of artificially sweetened soft drinks may be associated with higher risks of dementia.

To get an expert view on how artificial sweeteners impact our brain, we reached out to Dr Brunda MS, Sr Consultant - Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore.

Do Artificial Sweeteners Affect Brain Function?

Let’s begin by understanding whether what the study claims has any truth attached to it or not. Can artificial sweeteners actually harm our brain? Our expert answers.

Dr Brunda MS explains, “Artificial sweeteners may affect brain function, but the effects are usually mild and vary from person to person. Some suggest that sweeteners can change how the brain senses sweetness, which may confuse appetite control and cravings. In some people, they may trigger headaches, mood changes, or trouble focusing. Artificial sweeteners can also affect gut bacteria, which has a connection to brain health. However, most research shows they are safe in small amounts. Eating them occasionally is fine, but relying on them daily may not be ideal for long-term brain health.”

Can Artificial Sweeteners Affect Mental Health?

What about our mental health? Can such sweeteners have any negative impact on this as well? Our expert says that artificial sweeteners may affect mental health in some people, but the effects are not the same for everyone.

Shedding more light on this, Dr Brunda MS shares, “Studies suggest that sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose may be linked to mood changes, anxiety, or low mood when taken in large amounts. They can also affect brain chemicals that control emotions and stress. Changes in gut bacteria caused by artificial sweeteners may also influence mental well-being. Some people report headaches, irritability, or trouble sleeping after consuming them. Most experts say they are safe in small amounts, but frequent or heavy use may increase the risk of mental discomfort in sensitive individuals.”

But can artificial sweeteners cause brain fog? “Artificial sweeteners may cause brain fog in some people, but this does not happen to everyone. Some individuals report feeling confused, tired, or less focused after consuming sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose. These sweeteners may affect brain chemicals or trigger headaches, which can lead to mental fog. Changes in gut health caused by artificial sweeteners may also influence brain clarity. Sensitivity varies from person to person, and small amounts are usually safe for most people. However, frequent or high intake may increase the chance of brain fog, especially in people who already have digestion or concentration issues,” explains the expert.

Also Read: Are Sugar Free Food Items Really Healthy? Find Out Here

Long-term Side Effects Of Artificial Sweeteners

Long-term use of artificial sweeteners may cause health effects in some people, especially when used daily and in large amounts. On this note, Dr Brunda MS lists down its cons for us:

• Studies suggest they may affect gut bacteria, which can impact digestion, immunity, and mood. They may also confuse the body’s sugar response, leading to increased cravings and weight gain over time.
• Some research links them to a higher risk of diabetes and metabolic problems.
• Headaches, bloating, and low energy are also reported by some users.

“While they are approved as safe in limited amounts, depending on artificial sweeteners for long periods may not support overall long-term health,” adds the expert.

Does Your Brain Work Better Without Sugar?

What happens when you stop having sugar? If you are wondering whether your brain function improves without sugar or not, our expert answers this for you as well.

“The brain does not work better without sugar, but it works better with the right amount of sugar. Glucose is the brain’s main source of energy and helps with focus, memory, and thinking. However, too much sugar can cause energy crashes, poor concentration, and mood swings,” says Dr Brunda MS.
She adds, “High sugar intake over time may increase brain fog and inflammation. Cutting down on added and processed sugar can improve mental clarity and steady energy levels. Natural sugars from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are healthier for the brain. So, the brain functions best with balanced sugar intake, not with no sugar at all.”

Can Your Brain Survive Without Sugar?

So if you cut sugar from your life completely, will that affect your brain health? In fact, the bigger question is – can your brain survive without it? Before answering all these, we will tell you what happens to your brain when you quit sugar. “When you quit sugar, your brain goes through an adjustment phase. At first, you may feel tired, irritable, or have headaches because the brain is used to quick sugar energy. Cravings and low mood can also appear for a few days. As time passes, brain energy becomes more stable and focused, and mental clarity may improve. Mood swings often reduce, and sleep quality can get better. Cutting out excess sugar may lower brain inflammation and improve memory over time. After a few weeks, many people feel calmer, more alert, and mentally balanced,” explains Dr Brunda MS.

Now, let us circle back to the main question – can your brain survive without sugar?

“Yes, your brain can survive without eating sugar, but it still needs energy. The brain uses glucose, a type of sugar, to work properly, but your body can make glucose from other foods like protein and fat,” answers the expert.

“This means you don’t need to eat sugar to feed your brain. Avoiding added sugar can improve focus, mood, and long-term brain health. Natural sugars from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains provide safer energy than sweets or soda. So, while the brain needs sugar for energy, it does not depend on eating sugary foods to survive and function,” concludes Dr Brunda MS.

Also Read: Natural Sweetener vs Sugar Free: Which is Better for You? Nutritionist Tells the Truth

The Final Word

Artificial sweeteners may affect brain function, but the effects are usually mild and vary from person to person. Artificial sweeteners may cause brain fog in some people, but this does not happen to everyone. Some individuals report feeling confused, tired, or less focused after consuming sweeteners like aspartame or sucralose. Thus, it is safe to say that natural sugars from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are healthier for the brain.