Link Between Sweeteners and Genetic Factors in Early Puberty Risks

Recent research has uncovered significant associations between the intake of certain sweeteners and the onset of early puberty in children, particularly among those with genetic predispositions. A cohort study involving 1,407 children from the Taiwan Pubertal Longitudinal Study revealed that consumption of sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose, and glycyrrhizin correlates with an increased risk of central precocious puberty (CPP), characterized by the early development of secondary sexual characteristics.

The study, led by Dr. Yang-Ching Chen, MD, PhD, from Taipei Municipal Wan Fang Hospital and Taipei Medical University, was presented at the ENDO 2025 conference held in San Francisco. According to Dr. Chen, the findings indicate that both sweetener consumption and genetic predisposition are independently linked to heightened risks of CPP, suggesting that dietary adjustments alongside genetic assessments may be vital in mitigating long-term health consequences associated with early puberty.

The prevalence of CPP has been rising globally, prompting further investigation into its causative factors. The study utilized validated questionnaires and urinary biomarkers to evaluate sweetener intake, while genetic predispositions were measured using polygenic risk scores derived from 19 single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with CPP. Central precocious puberty was clinically diagnosed through established hormonal and imaging criteria.

Among the 1,407 children analyzed, 481 were diagnosed with CPP. The research highlighted a dose-dependent relationship between sweetener intake and CPP risk, with higher consumption levels exacerbating the likelihood of early puberty. Notably, sucralose had a pronounced effect among boys, while glycyrrhizin and added sugars posed a greater risk for girls.

Dr. Chen emphasized the relevance of these findings to pediatricians, families, and public health authorities. "Integrating genetic and dietary assessments could guide preventive strategies for children at heightened risk, potentially leading to new dietary guidelines or risk assessment tools to support healthier developmental trajectories," he stated.

Experts in pediatric endocrinology have noted the implications of these findings. Dr. Alice Thompson, a pediatric endocrinologist at the University of California, San Francisco, remarked, "This research underscores the need for awareness regarding dietary influences on hormonal development in children. It could reshape how we approach dietary recommendations for young populations."

Additionally, Dr. Robert Martinez, an epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins University, pointed out that while the study presents compelling associations, further longitudinal studies are necessary to fully understand the causal relationships between sweetener consumption, genetic factors, and early puberty onset. "We must consider environmental influences and individual variations when interpreting these results," he cautioned.

As public health authorities grapple with rising rates of obesity and associated health issues in children, the potential role of dietary factors in early sexual maturation warrants urgent attention. The study's conclusions may prompt further investigations into dietary regulations and public health policies aimed at reducing sweetener consumption among children.

In conclusion, the interplay between sweeteners and genetic predisposition presents a complex challenge in the realm of pediatric health. Future research will need to clarify the mechanisms at play and develop effective strategies to counteract the risks associated with early puberty, ensuring the healthy development of future generations.