Stroke is a devastating health condition that affects millions of people every year. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide, with an estimated 13.7 million people affected in 2015.

While stroke can be caused by a variety of factors, research has shown that there is a link between the consumption of sweeteners and an increased risk of stroke. These findings are a bitter truth that highlights the need for people to be aware of the dangers posed by sweeteners.

What Are Sweeteners?

Sweeteners are substances that are used to give foods and drinks a sweet taste without the use of sugar. They are often used as a low-calorie alternative to sugar and are commonly found in a range of products from soft drinks to chewing gum.

There are two main types of sweeteners: natural sweeteners and artificial sweeteners.

Natural Sweeteners

Natural sweeteners are derived from plants and other natural sources. They include honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, and stevia.

While natural sweeteners are often seen as a healthier alternative to sugar, they still contain calories and can cause an increase in blood sugar levels.

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are chemically produced substances that are used to give food and drinks a sweet taste without the use of sugar.

They are often used in “diet” or “sugar-free” products and include aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose. While artificial sweeteners have no calories and can be beneficial for people looking to reduce their calorie intake, research has shown that they may have negative health effects.

The Link Between Sweeteners and Stroke

Research has shown that there is a link between the consumption of sweeteners and an increased risk of stroke.

One study conducted by the University of Miami found that people who drank diet soda every day had a 61% higher risk of stroke than those who did not drink diet soda. Another study conducted by the University of Texas found that people who consumed more than two artificially sweetened drinks a day had a 23% higher risk of stroke than those who consumed less than one.

The reason for this link between sweeteners and stroke is not entirely clear.

However, some researchers believe that the consumption of sweeteners can lead to an increase in blood pressure and an increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease, both of which are risk factors for stroke.

Sweeteners and Cardiovascular Disease

Research has also shown that the consumption of sweeteners can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

One study conducted by the University of Iowa found that women who consumed two or more diet drinks per day were 30% more likely to experience a cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack, than those who consumed less than one per week. Another study conducted by the American Heart Association found that people who consumed more than six artificially sweetened beverages a week had a 48% higher risk of cardiovascular disease than those who consumed less than one per week.

The reason for this link between sweeteners and cardiovascular disease is not entirely clear.

However, some researchers believe that the consumption of sweeteners can lead to an increase in inflammation in the body, which is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Limiting Your Consumption of Sweeteners

While sweeteners may be a low-calorie alternative to sugar, their negative health effects should not be ignored. If you are looking to reduce your risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease, it is important to limit your consumption of sweeteners.

Instead, opt for natural sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or stevia, or consume foods and drinks in moderation.

Conclusion

The link between sweeteners and stroke is a bitter truth that highlights the need for people to be aware of the dangers posed by these substances.

While sweeteners may be a low-calorie alternative to sugar, their negative health effects should not be ignored. By limiting your consumption of sweeteners and choosing natural sweeteners instead, you can help reduce your risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.