Aspartame, widely used in low-calorie products, is common in the American diet. Given its prevalence, it is critical to understand the potential risks associated with its consumption to help consumers make informed dietary choices.

Approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), aspartame is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a maximum daily intake of 50 mg per kilogram of body weight. However, the variability in consumption patterns raises questions about its safety.

Key findings of the study

Among the findings of the research are:

Physical Effects. 20% reduction in body fat, but abnormal thickening of the heart muscle.

Cognitive Effects. Decreased spatial awareness and memory capacity in exposed mice. The results suggest that aspartame could have negative effects on heart and brain function even at low doses.

Perspectives, Reactions, and Recommendations

Research on other artificial sweeteners, such as erythritol, also suggests associated risks. This underscores the need for further studies, especially in humans, to assess long-term health impacts.

The study authors advise a reassessment of the safety limits for aspartame in humans. Health authorities suggest that consumers monitor their intake of artificial sweeteners and pay attention to new research and public health guidelines.

In addition to the present study, another from 2022 in PLOS Medicine analyzed artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, and found associations with an increased risk of cancer. Another from 2015 mentions a 1977 FDA experiment in which 98 out of 196 baby mice exposed to aspartame died. Aspartame Symptoms:Reported adverse effects of aspartame in humans mainly include neurological and digestive symptoms, although the scientific evidence is limited and controversial. Neurological symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, insomnia, irritability, depression, fatigue, and vertigo are mentioned as common neuropsychiatric side effects in some studies. Visual problems such as blurred vision also appear in reports of intoxication or sensitivity. Digestive symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and bloating are frequent gastrointestinal symptoms associated with high consumption. Some cases report nasal congestion and excessive thirst.

Long-term risks. Aspartame is classified as a possible carcinogen (Group 2B) by the WHO, with limited evidence of liver cancer in humans and cardiovascular risks or chronic inflammation. People with phenylketonuria should avoid it due to phenylalanine accumulation.

Alternatives to aspartame

There are several natural alternatives to aspartame, an artificial sweetener controversial for its potential health effects. Options such as stevia and erythritol are considered safer due to their plant origin and low caloric impact.

Stevia. Extracted from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, it offers sweetness without calories and does not raise blood glucose levels. Studies indicate that it does not cause significant adverse effects and is suitable for diabetics.

Erythritol and monk fruit.

Erythritol, a natural sugar alcohol from fruit, has zero calories and does not ferment in the gut, reducing digestive risks. Monk fruit extract is another intense plant-based sweetener, with no glycemic impact and antioxidants.

Other options:

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