Animal and observational research in humans suggest that specific types of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) may impair glycemic control. However, whether NNS consumption impacts glucose homeostasis in middle-aged/older adults with prediabetes is unknown, and potential mechanisms by which this could occur have yet to be identified. The overall objective of this R21 proposal is to establish proof-of-concept for alterations in glucose homeostasis following intake of sucralose, but not aspartame, in middle-aged/older adults with prediabetes compared to a eucaloric diet with no NNS.
Age 40+ years
Prediabetic (fasting glucose concentration of 100-125 mg/dL, 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test glucose concentration of 140-199 mg/dL, or a HbA1c value of 5.7% to 6.4%)
Weight stable for previous 6 months (±2 kg)
BMI <40 kg/m2
BMI >40 kg/m2
Diabetes or diabetes medication
Antibiotic, prebiotic or prebiotic use in prior 3 months
Uncontrolled hypertension (blood pressure (BP) > 159/99 mmHg)