ru.euronews.com
Artificial Sweeteners Linked to Accelerated Cognitive Decline in Study
A Brazilian study of nearly 13,000 adults found that higher artificial sweetener consumption correlated with a 62% faster decline in cognitive abilities, equivalent to 1.6 years of aging, particularly among those with diabetes.
- What is the key finding of the Brazilian study on artificial sweetener consumption and cognitive decline?
- The study revealed a strong correlation between higher artificial sweetener intake (up to 191mg/day) and a significantly faster rate of cognitive decline, approximately 62% faster than in those with lower intake. This accelerated decline was equivalent to an additional 1.6 years of cognitive aging.
- What are the broader implications and limitations of this study regarding the consumption of artificial sweeteners?
- While the study highlights a concerning correlation, it doesn't prove causation. Further research is needed to establish direct causality. The study's reliance on self-reported dietary data and its focus on specific sweeteners are limitations. The findings, however, add to existing concerns regarding the long-term health effects of artificial sweeteners, particularly in individuals with diabetes.
- How did the study account for factors like age and pre-existing conditions, and what specific sweeteners were included?
- The study followed participants for eight years, testing cognitive function at intervals. Participants were divided into groups based on sweetener consumption (20mg/day to 191mg/day). Sweeteners included aspartame, saccharin, acesulfame-K, erythritol, xylitol, sorbitol, and tagatose; however, only tagatose showed no correlation with cognitive decline. The link was stronger in participants with diabetes.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a fairly neutral framing of the study's findings, clearly stating both the study's conclusions and its limitations. The headline accurately reflects the study's core finding. While the inclusion of the researcher's statement emphasizes the potential negative impact, it's balanced by acknowledging the study's limitations later in the text.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective, employing scientific terminology and avoiding sensationalism. Words like "observed," "associated with," and "potential" indicate caution and avoid definitive claims. However, phrases like "more rapidly decline in cognitive abilities" might be slightly stronger than necessary; a more neutral phrasing would be "a faster rate of decline in cognitive abilities.
Bias by Omission
The article mentions limitations such as reliance on self-reported dietary information and the lack of establishing direct causation. However, it could benefit from mentioning other potential confounding factors that might influence cognitive decline, such as overall diet quality, exercise levels, and genetic predisposition. Also, specifying the types and amounts of other foods consumed by participants would provide a more complete picture.
Sustainable Development Goals
The study directly investigates the impact of artificial sweeteners on cognitive function, a key aspect of overall health and well-being. The findings indicate a negative correlation between artificial sweetener consumption and cognitive decline, suggesting a detrimental effect on brain health. This directly relates to SDG 3, which aims to 'ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages'.