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From biological warfare to our food supply. Aspartame has come a long way.

I chanced upon a disturbing news article from The Huffington Post. I know it is old news. All that controversy about  aspartame has been around since its introduction as a sugar substitute. It tastes like sugar and is calorie free, hence you’d find it in those zero calorie diet food and drinks for the calorie counters.

At the same time, it is used to sweeten food and desserts for diabetics, enabling those with a sweet tooth to enjoy their sugar-free treats, sweetness and all.

When aspartame is metabolized, it is broken down into 2 amino acids and methanol.

FDA reviewed a study on whether aspartame causes cancer and issued a statement on 20 April 2007.  FDA does not support the conclusion that aspartame is a carcinogen and stands by its earlier conclusion that aspartame is safe. CBS news The Early Show interviewed Dr Marshall about that study done on aspartame safety.

Dr Joseph Mercola begs to differ. According to him, aspartame is an excitotoxin – it excites brain cells until they die. This can lead to neurodegeneration. Side effects of this artificial sweetener include migraines, brain tumours, depression and hallucinations. It is also known to cause gastrointestinal problems. 

The ironical thing according to Dr Joseph Mercola’s article, is that aspartame use may actually lead to weight gain by stimulating the appetite. The very thing many people going for zero calorie options are trying to avoid.

A friend of mine who has diabetes uses artificial sweeteners as they are the lesser evil considering her condition.

Personally, I’ve been wary of artificial sweeteners. I use honey or at least, use less sugar if I want to be more careful about counting calories.

At the end of the day, it is your life, your decision.

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