A new study has raised red flags about the use of artificial sweeteners during cancer treatment, suggesting that these sugar substitutes might reduce the effectiveness of immunotherapy in some cases.
Published in Cancer Discovery, the research showed that mice given an artificial sweetener responded poorly to immunotherapy compared to those that weren’t exposed to it. The sweetener affected the immune system, making the treatment less effective.
A Possible Fix: Arginine Supplement
The study also found a promising solution — arginine, a natural amino acid. When mice received an arginine supplement, the negative impact of the sweetener was reversed.
“It’s not always practical to ask cancer patients to stop consuming diet products completely,” the researchers noted. “So finding a workaround like arginine is important.”
Why It Matters
Artificial sweeteners are widely used in diet sodas and sugar-free foods, often seen as healthier alternatives to sugar. But for cancer patients, especially those receiving immunotherapy, they may carry unexpected risks.
The World Health Organization has already raised concerns about long-term use of artificial sweeteners, linking them to heart disease and other health issues.
What’s Next
While this study was done on mice, it sets the stage for future research in humans. Until then, experts recommend that cancer patients talk to their doctors about diet choices — especially when undergoing treatment.
Researchers hope that arginine supplements might offer a simple and safe solution for patients who rely on sugar-free products.
