New review highlights dangers of titanium dioxide in food products
Recent peer-reviewed research has once again focused attention on the food additive titanium dioxide, indicating that its toxic effects might be more significant than previously recognized. The study emphasizes the potential dangers posed by nanoparticles of this substance in food, which could represent serious health risks for consumers.
Titanium dioxide is commonly utilized in its nanoparticle form to enhance the appearance of food, particularly in products like candy and snacks. The additive has faced scrutiny due to its possible links to health issues, including diabetes and obesity.
Conducted by researchers from Jiaxing Nanhu University in China, the study indicates that titanium dioxide nanoparticles may disrupt the body’s endocrine system. This disruption can hinder the hormonal response to food and upset blood sugar regulation, which could lead to serious conditions like type 2 diabetes and obesity. The findings add to the growing body of evidence suggesting that ultra-processed foods – more broadly - can adversely affect “food hormones,” although the precise mechanisms remain unclear.
In their research, the team compared three groups of mice: those fed titanium dioxide nanoparticles, those given larger microparticles, and a control group with no titanium dioxide. Results showed that mice consuming nanoparticles exhibited significantly lower levels of gut hormones responsible for signaling satiety, aiding digestion, and regulating glucose. Additionally, these mice had elevated blood sugar levels compared to their counterparts.
The researchers noted that the titanium dioxide nanoparticles appeared to disrupt the differentiation of enteroendocrine cells, which play a crucial role in hormone secretion. This disruption could lead to an increased risk of obesity and insulin resistance, raising concerns about long-term health implications.
The European Union has already taken action against the additive, banning its use in food products in 2022 due to previous findings linking it to neurotoxicity and immunotoxicity, while the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) continues to assert that it is safe for consumption. As the conversation around toxic food additives gains momentum, advocates are prepared to pursue legal avenues if the FDA remains unresponsive.
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