• Huberman on aspartame and artificial sugars, gut health?

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    : person[Andrew Huberman]{sid=pers_78} discusses the impacts of artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, on gut health primarily based on animal studies. Here's a summary of his insights:

    1. Animal Model Findings: Studies show that artificial sweeteners like saccharin and sucralose can disrupt gut microbiomes in mice, but equivalent effects in humans aren't well established 1.

    2. Controversial Effects: While some data suggest that sweeteners might disrupt the gut microbiome, particularly saccharin, claims about similar effects for all sweeteners, including aspartame, remain debated. Probiotic use could mitigate some negative effects in mice 2.

    3. Gut and Brain Interaction: Research indicates gut neurons can distinguish between sugars and artificial sweeteners and signal differently to the brain. This might influence cravings for sweet foods 3 4.

    4. Safety and Consumption Caution: Limited evidence directly links artificial sweeteners to cancer, but caution is advised for their broader effects on brain and gut health. Alternatives like xylitol and allulose are considered safer options by some experts 5.

    The overall stance is cautious, recommending moderation due to the limited and sometimes conflicting evidence mainly based on animal research.

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