THE USE OF ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS AND THEIR ENDOCRINOMETABOLIC EFFECTS IN TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS

Abstract

The use of artificial sweeteners is common among patients with type 2 diabetes as an alternative to sugar. However, recent studies indicate that these compounds can negatively influence glucose metabolism, increasing insulin resistance and affecting the gut microbiota. Consequently, uncertainties arise regarding the real safety and efficacy of sweeteners in disease management. The central question is to analyze the effects of artificial sweetener consumption on the incidence and metabolic control of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The methodology was based on an integrative literature review. Recent studies indicate that artificial sweeteners have been associated with adverse effects on the modification of microbiota composition and glucose metabolism, favoring insulin resistance. Furthermore, some sweeteners, such as sucralose, can alter the lipid profile, leading to an increased cardiovascular risk. Moreover, consumers of artificial sweeteners, when compared to non-consumers, have a higher risk of developing T2DM. The use of synthetic sweeteners is not considered a safe substitute for sugar, according to the American Diabetes Association, due to their controversial effects. However, it is worth noting that the available evidence lacks greater methodological robustness, since many studies use sweetener doses much higher than those recommended, have small samples, or do not consider other intervening factors, which limits the generalizability of the results.