Sweeteners can harm cognitive health equivalent to 1.6 years of ageing, study finds

Here is a 175-word summary of the news article: A new study has found that low- and no-calorie sweeteners found in foods and drinks can have a detrimental effect on cognitive health, equivalent to 1.6 years of aging. Researchers examined the link between sweetener consumption and thinking and memory abilities in middle-aged adults. The study found that people who consumed the highest amounts of artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and saccharin, experienced a 62% faster decline in their cognitive powers compared to those who consumed little or no sweeteners. This decline in thinking and memory abilities was comparable to the effects of 1.6 years of aging. The findings suggest that these common food additives may cause "long-term harm" to people's health, particularly as they get older. The study highlights the potential risks associated with the widespread use of low- and no-calorie sweeteners in the modern diet and calls for further research into their impact on cognitive function and overall wellbeing.