Aspartame (E951) is an artificial sweetener widely used in many food and beverage products. It has been added to products since the late 1970s and can be found in over 6,000 items worldwide nowadays.
But, despite its widespread use, there has been some controversy surrounding the safety of aspartame, particularly regarding its potential carcinogenic effects. Everything you need to know until now is right below.
What Is Aspartame?
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener made from two amino acids: aspartic acid and phenylalanine. It is used as a sugar substitute because it is much sweeter and has far fewer calories.
Did you know that aspartame is approximately 200 times sweeter than table sugar? That is why it is a common ingredient in diet sodas, sugar-free gums and candies, and even certain pharmaceuticals, for example!
But the artificial sweetener may bring some potential effects to people's bodies. There has been some controversy surrounding its safety as much information came to the surface during different studies about the theme. Keep reading.
What Are The Potential Health Effects Of Aspartame?
Some studies have suggested that it may be linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancers, such as leukemia and lymphoma. Additionally, other studies say that aspartame might be linked to headaches, dizziness, memory loss, and other neurological conditions. However, the evidence to support these claims is largely inconclusive.
What Do Experts Say About Aspartame?
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations have both reviewed the safety of aspartame and concluded that it is safe for human consumption at the levels currently consumed. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) concluded that it is safe for use as a food additive.
Meanwhile, the American Cancer Society (ACS) concluded that there is no clear evidence that aspartame causes cancer in humans, but, on the other hand, recommends that people who are sensitive to aspartame should limit their consumption of foods and beverages containing it.
There is nothing that proves that aspartame is a possible carcinogen so far.
Is Aspartame A Possible Carcinogen?
At this time, the evidence to suggest that aspartame is a possible carcinogen is inconclusive. Some studies suggest a link between aspartame and certain cancer types, but the evidence is largely inconclusive.
It is up to each individual to decide whether or not to consume it. While there is some evidence to suggest that aspartame may pose a health risk, more research is needed to confirm the link.
