​​Sweeteners and glucose metabolism in pre-diabetes​

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​​​​​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.​

      Ethics Protocol No.

      ​​2022HRE00300​

      Contact us

      To find out more information about participating in this study please contact: Michelle Bound or Jacqui Grivell.

      Telephone

      Phone: +61 8 8313 6676

      Email

      Email: ​​diabetes@adelaide.edu.au