Potential Link Between Sweetener Intake and Early Puberty Risk in Children

Recent research presented at ENDO 2025, the annual meeting of the Endocrine Society, highlights a concerning connection between the consumption of certain artificial sweeteners and the increased risk of early puberty in children. The study, conducted in Taiwan and involving data from over 1,400 adolescents, indicates that children who consume sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose, glycyrrhizin, and added sugars are more likely to develop central precocious puberty, especially if they carry specific genetic traits.

Central precocious puberty is a condition where physical and hormonal changes of puberty occur earlier than usual, which can lead to emotional challenges, shorter adult stature, and higher risks of metabolic and reproductive health issues later in life.

The researchers found that the quantity of sweeteners intake correlates positively with the risk of early puberty. Notably, sucralose consumption was linked to higher risks in boys, while in girls, glycyrrhizin, sucralose, and added sugars showed similar associations. Children with certain genetic predispositions were more vulnerable to these effects.

This study builds on previous findings by Dr. Yang Ching Chen, which demonstrated that artificial sweeteners could influence hormones and gut bacteria tied to puberty onset. For instance, acesulfame potassium (AceK) was shown to activate pathways in brain cells that promote puberty hormones, while glycyrrhizin can alter gut bacteria and reduce gene activity related to puberty regulation.

The findings suggest that dietary habits involving sweeteners may significantly impact normal developmental processes. The Taiwanese study used questionnaires, urine tests, genetic risk scoring, and medical assessments to draw these conclusions. Significantly, monitoring and moderating sweetener intake, alongside genetic screening, could be powerful strategies to prevent premature puberty and its associated health issues.

The research emphasizes the importance of awareness among parents, healthcare providers, and policymakers regarding the potential effects of artificial and added sugars in children's diets. It underscores the need for updated dietary guidelines and risk assessment tools to promote healthier developmental trajectories in youth.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-consuming-sweeteners-early-puberty.html