India, April 13 -- A new study suggests that popular zero-calorie sweeteners might slightly change the bacteria in our gut and affect genes related to metabolism and inflammation.
Scientists tested this on 47 mice, dividing them into three groups. One group drank plain water, while the other two drank water with either sucralose or stevia. These mice then had offspring for two generations, and those later generations were only given plain water.
Each generation was tested to see how well their bodies handled sugar, which helps detect early signs of diabetes. Researchers also examined their gut bacteria and certain chemicals, called short-chain fatty acids, that can influence gene activity and may be passed from parents to offspring. They ...