10 Shocking Ways Artificial Sweeteners Are Wrecking Your Gut Health

2. The Sweetener Spectrum: Understanding the Different Types

Artificial sweeteners come in various forms, each with unique properties and potential impacts on gut health. The most common types include aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, and stevia. Aspartame, used in many diet sodas, breaks down into phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and methanol, which can affect gut bacteria. Sucralose, found in products like Splenda, is not absorbed by the body and passes through the digestive system, potentially altering gut flora. Saccharin, one of the oldest artificial sweeteners, has been linked to changes in gut microbiota composition. Even natural sweeteners like stevia, though considered safer, can impact the gut in significant ways. Understanding the chemical structures and specific interactions of these sweeteners with the gut microbiome can help inform healthier choices.