Artificial sweeteners affect brain hunger signals, study finds

A study by researchers at the University of Southern California, published in Nature Metabolism, examined brain responses in 75 adults after drinking beverages sweetened with sugar, sucralose or water. Magnetic‑resonance imaging showed that sucralose increased activity in the hypothalamus, the region that regulates hunger, and participants reported greater desire to eat, with the effect most pronounced in individuals with obesity.

Separate health advice highlights that added sugar can worsen anxiety by causing rapid blood‑glucose spikes and subsequent crashes. Experts recommend replacing sugary foods with protein‑rich, fiber‑dense options such as Greek yogurt with fruit and nuts, protein‑packed smoothies, or baked sweet potatoes to help stabilize mood and reduce cravings.