How non-nutritive sweeteners affect blood sugar levels in older adults with prediabetes
Non-Nutritive Sweetener Consumption and Glucose Homeostasis in Middle-Aged and Older Adults with Prediabetes
This study is looking at how different non-nutritive sweeteners, like sucralose and aspartame, affect blood sugar levels in middle-aged and older adults with prediabetes, to help understand if these sweeteners can impact diabetes risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10579260 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) on glucose homeostasis in middle-aged and older adults who have prediabetes. The study aims to determine whether consuming sucralose, a common NNS, impacts blood sugar levels differently than aspartame or a diet without NNS. Participants will be monitored for changes in their glucose levels and inflammation markers, providing insights into how these sweeteners may influence diabetes risk. The research seeks to clarify conflicting recommendations regarding NNS consumption for diabetes prevention.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are middle-aged and older adults who have been diagnosed with prediabetes.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have prediabetes or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide clearer guidelines on the safety and effects of non-nutritive sweeteners for older adults at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: While some animal and observational studies have suggested potential negative effects of NNS on glucose metabolism, this specific approach focusing on older adults with prediabetes is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Blacksburg, United States
- Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ — Blacksburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hedrick, Valisa — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Hedrick, Valisa
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.