Last Updated on July 16, 2021 by Team THIP
Quick Take
A common myth about artificial sweeteners causing Cancer is being posted by multiple social media users. We fact-checked and found that the claim is False.
The Claim
Most social media users who post the claim believe that artificial sweeteners cause Cancer. Such claims can be seen here, and here.
A snapshot is also given below.
Fact Check
What are artificial sweeteners?
Artificial sweeteners are chemically produced food additives that act as replacements for regular sugar. They produce the same sweet taste of sugar while adding no extra calories (zero calories). Thus it makes them a healthy substitute for sugar, especially for people with Diabetes or Obesity.
Do artificial sweeteners cause Cancer?
NO. This is a common myth that has been debunked by fact-checkers and clarified by health professionals multiple times.
The myth probably originated when in a laboratory experiment scientists found that mice develop the risk of the bladder when fed extremely high amounts of saccharin. However, mice metabolize saccharin differently than humans.
In multiple follow up research done on humans, scientists found no link between artificial sweeteners and human cancers. Such researches are published here, here, and here.
Similar research was done over 13 years on 9,000 participants. Yet, no link was found between artificial sweeteners and any type of Cancer. Another study was done over 11 years also did not find any link between artificial sweeteners and Cancer.
We consulted Senior Oncologist, Dr. Manish Singhal, on the issue. He says, “This is a myth. There is no scientific evidence that artificial sweeteners cause any Cancer. The experiments on mice never were proved on humans. They are cleared by USFDA.”
Are artificial sweeteners completely safe?
Artificial sweeteners are often added to Diet Sodas and Cold-Drinks. Some studies have linked Diet Sodas to an increased risk of developing Diabetes or a higher risk of metabolic syndrome. However, in all such cases, further studies are required to provide conclusive evidence.
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