Acute effect of the renally excreted low-calorie sweetener, acesulfame potassium (Ace-K), on urinary glucose excretion in people with pre-diabetes.
About the study
Low-calorie sweeteners (LCS) have been widely used in food and beverages in recent decades. However, a recent World Health Organisation (WHO) report highlighted that people who consume LCS regularly have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K) is a widely used low-calorie sweetener that is absorbed from the gut and excreted in the urine.
We want to find out whether Ace-K consumption reduces the amount of glucose excreted in the urine in healthy individuals and people with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes, which would promote higher blood glucose levels.
Eligible participants will be required to attend three sessions (before and after the intervention), each held between approximately 8am and 1pm, separated by at least seven days.
Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for this study, you should:
- Have pre-diabetes. If you are unsure, we will do a glucose tolerance test at the screen.
- Aged 18 – 70 years.
- Body mass index (BMI) 20-40 kg/m2.
Participants must be able to attend the Clinical Research Facility at the Adelaide Health and Medical Sciences Building on North Terrace.
Recruitment timeline
Start of recruitment: March 2026
End of recruitment: December 2027
Benefits
After successfully completing the trial, an honorarium of up to $300 will paid via EFT transfer to participants for their time.