Common Sweeteners Linked to Early Puberty Risk in Children: Study Finds

Consuming certain sweeteners commonly found in processed foods and beverages may significantly increase the risk of early puberty in children, particularly among those with a genetic predisposition, according to research presented at ENDO 2025, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting held in San Francisco, California. The study identified a strong association between the intake of sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose, glycyrrhizin, and added sugars, and the onset of central precocious puberty — a condition marked by early hormonal and physical changes.

Early puberty, especially central precocious puberty, has become increasingly common in recent years. It can cause emotional and psychological distress, result in shorter adult height, and increase the risk of metabolic and reproductive disorders later in life.

The study drew on data from the Taiwan Pubertal Longitudinal Study (TPLS), which began in 2018 and included 1,407 adolescents. Central precocious puberty was diagnosed in 481 participants. Researchers assessed dietary intake using validated questionnaires and urine tests to measure sweetener exposure. Genetic susceptibility was evaluated using polygenic risk scores derived from 19 genes associated with early puberty. Medical exams, hormone tests, and imaging scans confirmed diagnoses.