Ditch the sugar substitute, it harms the gut

Overconsumption of sugar in any form is a major factor in the development of conditions such as obesity and diabetes. — TNS

Artificial sweeteners have the ability to turn healthy gut bacteria into harmful microbes and potentially cause serious health issues such as blood poisoning, scientists say.

British researchers have found that sugar substitutes such as saccharin, sucralose and aspartame – found in soft drinks and processed foods – can cause beneficial bacteria in the intestines such as E.coli (Escherichia coli) and E.faecalis (Enterococcus faecalis) to become pathogenic, or disease-causing.