A possible link between artificial sweeteners and heart disease has been identified, with scientists noting they should "not be considered a healthy and safe alternative to sugar".
Sugar substitutes were linked to a 9% higher risk of heart disease and an 18% higher risk of cerebrovascular disease – conditions which affect the blood flow to the brain. A sweetener called aspartame was associated with a 17% increased risk of cerebrovascular events.
Led by experts from the Sorbonne Paris Nord University, the authors examined participants' intake of sweeteners from all dietary sources including drinks, table top sweeteners, and dairy products and compared it to their risk of heart or circulatory diseases.
