Comparative Effects of Sucrose and Saccharin on Glucose metabolism and Metabolic Health

Abstract

Background: Over the years, sweetening agents have been utilized to heighten the flavor and aesthetics of food items. However, the influence of sweeteners on blood glucose homeostasis is still a source of discussion and worry. While some research imply that sweeteners have little or no effect on blood sugar levels, others suggest that they can affect glucose metabolism. This study was aimed to assess the precise impact of sweeteners on blood glucose regulation, investigating whether different types of sweeteners affect glucose metabolism differently.

Methodology: Thirty male Wistar rats, weighing between 140-160 g, were randomly grouped into three: Group one served as the control, Group Two received sucrose (100 mg/kg body weight), and Group Three was administered saccharin (5 mg/kg body weight).  After the administration was complete, the animals were anaesthetized and sacrificed, Blood samples were obtained for insulin assays. The pancreas was dissected and used for both histological examination and determination of relative expression of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARγ).

Results: The results show that both sucrose and saccharin caused significant increased body weight, blood glucose level, insulin level and relative expression of PPARγ gene. Saccharin seems to exert more profound effects on glucose metabolism via marked increase in body weight and insulin level compared to sucrose.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that saccharin exerts more profound effects on glucose metabolism via marked increase in body weight, predisposing one to obesity and obesity-related diseases, while sucrose has increased tendency to cause glucose intolerance.