The use of artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and saccharin, are becoming more prevalent due to its popularity for low calorie diets and sugar alternatives, especially to those with diabetes. Artificial sweeteners have been found to cause adverse health effects ranging from headaches to cancer (Whitehouse, 2008). However, much of the research that has been done on the harmful effects of aspartame and saccharin is centered on their possible carcinogenic effects.
Little to no research has been conducted on the effects of aspartame and saccharin on the gut microbiome. The gut microbiome has been linked to the progression of multiple disorders based on the alterations in its composition. Studies have also found a bidirectional interaction between the gut microbiome and the brain (Ma, 2019). As many side effects of artificial sweeteners have
been reported in relation to the nervous system, we will explore if these artificial sweeteners are affecting the health of the gut microbiome. The aim of this study is to discuss the effects of aspartame and saccharin on human health, with emphasis on the gut microbiome.