Artificial Sweeteners: Are They Good or Bad for You?

Health claims about artificial sweeteners often get headlines, but the research is more nuanced.

Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Alexandra Schwarz, MD

Published on December 13, 2023

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There have been a lot of studies throughout the last several decades about artificial sweeteners. In particular, many people are concerned about studies that showed a link between artificial sweeteners (like aspartame and saccharin) and cancer in rats and mice. 

In this video, learn what researchers and organizations say about the cancer risk of artificial sweeteners, and whether sugar substitutes are safe and healthy. 

References

American Cancer Society. (2023). Aspartame and cancer risk.

National Cancer Institute. (2023). Artificial sweeteners and cancer.

View All References (4)

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Reuber, M. D. (1978). Carcinogenicity of saccharin. Environmental Health Perspectives.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2018). Additional information about high-intensity sweeteners permitted for use in food in the United States.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Aspartame and other sweeteners in food.

World Health Organization. (2023). Aspartame hazard and risk assessment results released.

GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.

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