Are Aspartame’s Benefits Sugarcoated?

Additional studies—including evaluations of possible associations between aspartame and headaches, seizures, behavior, cognition, and mood, as well as allergic-type reactions and use by potentially sensitive subpopulations—have been conducted. The verdict? Scientists maintain that aspartame is safe and that there are no unresolved questions regarding its safety when used as intended.⁶ Some researchers question the validity of the link between ASB consumption and negative health consequences, suggesting that individuals in worse health consume diet beverages in an effort to slow health deterioration or to lose weight.⁷ Yet, the debate about the effects of aspartame on our organs continues.

The number of epidemiologic studies that document strong associations between frequent ASB consumption and illness suggests that substituting or promoting artificial sweeteners as “healthy alternatives” to sugar may not be advisable.⁸ In fact, the most recent studies indicate that artificial sweeteners—the very compounds marketed to assist with weight control—can lead to weight gain, as they trick our brains into craving high-calorie foods. Moreover, ASB consumption is associated with a 21% increased risk for type 2 diabetes.⁹ Azad and colleagues found that evidence does not clearly support the use of nonnutritive sweeteners for weight management; they recommend using caution with these products until the long-term risks and benefits are fully understood.⁷

Is satisfying your sweet tooth with sugar alternatives worth the potential risk? Most of the studies conducted to support or refute aspartame-related health concerns prove correlation, not causality. A purist might point out that many of the studies have limitations that can lead to faulty conclusions. Be that as it may, it still gives one pause.

Small doses of aspartame each day might not be a tipping point toward the documented health complaints, but the consistent concerns about its effects were enough for me to make the switch to plain water, and sugar for my coffee. I do believe that Mary Poppins was correct—a spoonful of sugar does help—and I, for one, am following her lead.

What do you think? Are these concerns unfounded, or are we sweetening our road to poor health? Share your thoughts with me at NPeditor@frontlinemedcom.com.