Does aspartame have health risks? What to know about the sweetener as WHO raises safety questions.
On June 29, 2023, at 5:32 PM, CBS News published an article
Aspartame, a man-made sweetener that is 200 times sweeter than regular sugar, can be found in numerous items available in supermarkets. These products range from carbonated beverages and beverage mixes to low-calorie sauces and sweet treats. Notwithstanding, certain individuals and scientists have raised concerns regarding its potential impact on human health.
On Thursday, Reuters released an article stating that the cancer research division of the World Health Organization is going to announce that the man-made sugar substitute might have cancer-causing properties for individuals.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which is part of WHO, has examined the possible cancer-causing impact of aspartame. The organization informed CBS News that it will unveil its results on July 14th. However, they did not verify the claims made in the Reuters report regarding the safety of aspartame.
A carcinogen is any substance that is responsible for causing cancer, as explained by the National Cancer Institute of the National Institute of Health.
Cancer-causing substances can be found in nature or created by humans, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). These agents usually function by engaging with the DNA of a cell, resulting in genetic alterations.
According to the National Human Genome Research Institute's website, more than 500 substances have been recognized as confirmed, likely, or potential cancer-causing agents for humans. These substances include things like asbestos, the fumes released by vehicles, processed meat, or even exposure to ultraviolet rays. It is important to note that being exposed to a carcinogen doesn't automatically mean that you will develop cancer. The occurrence of cancer is influenced by various factors, and not every person exposed to a cancer-causing agent will ultimately develop the disease.
Is Aspartame Harmful?
In 1981, Aspartame made its debut as a sweetener with low-calorie content and has since gained popularity in food and drink products not only in North America but also in other parts of the world. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has given its approval for the usage of Aspartame in food items, with the agency assuring its safety for people in general.
According to the FDA, aspartame is a highly researched substance that is commonly found in our food. The FDA has conducted a comprehensive analysis of over 100 studies to examine any potential harmful effects on our bodies. These studies have investigated various aspects such as its impact on reproductive functions, nervous system, potential to cause cancer, and how our bodies metabolize it.
However, concerns regarding the safety of aspartame have arisen over time.
In the month of May, the World Health Organization (WHO) stated that the sugar substitute does not have sufficient evidence to support its usefulness in reducing weight, and cautioned about potential negative consequences associated with its prolonged usage. These adverse effects may include a higher likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular ailments, and an increased risk of mortality in adults.
A recent study conducted in 2021, which was published in the academic journal Nutrients and underwent critical evaluation by experts, observed that "it is challenging to anticipate the outcomes of its prolonged utilization."
The writers mentioned additional studies that propose a potential linkage between the intake of aspartame and the emergence of type 2 diabetes, although they assert that the connection "is not clearly defined." They also observed that the artificial sweetener can potentially trigger mood disturbances, psychological strain, and feelings of depression.
The writers examined a number of studies conducted on rodents, which suggested that aspartame might possess carcinogenic qualities. Nonetheless, they emphasized that it is not feasible to definitively establish that aspartame is cancer-causing for humans.
According to the American Cancer Society, various investigations examining the potential association between aspartame and cancer have yielded inconclusive findings.
There are other sweeteners under reconsideration at present, not just aspartame.
A recent research report that was released in February discovered that erythritol, a sugar substitute with no calories commonly employed to add sweetness to food and beverages with low calorie, low carbohydrate, and "keto" content, is associated with an increased likelihood of experiencing heart attacks, strokes, and even death.
Sweets that don't have sugar but instead use erythritol are often suggested for individuals dealing with obesity, diabetes, or metabolic syndrome who want to control their sugar and calorie consumption. People experiencing these health conditions are already more likely to face negative cardiovascular incidents like strokes.
Following the findings of that research, CBS News received a statement from Robert Rankin, the head of the Calorie Control Council, which is a worldwide organization that represents the industry producing low-calorie and reduced-calorie food and drinks. Rankin expressed that these results contradict numerous scientific studies conducted over several decades, proving the safety of low- and no-calorie sweeteners such as erythritol. He argued that this is supported by international regulations permitting their use in food and beverages. Rankin further emphasized that the study's outcomes should not be generalized to the general population since the participants who underwent the intervention already had a higher susceptibility to cardiovascular events.
Rankin stated that the IARC's statements regarding aspartame are deceptive and lack necessary details, in light of WHO's forthcoming declaration.
"Customers are entitled to reliable information, and the reality is that aspartame is considered safe and has been extensively researched as a food ingredient. Therefore, the Calorie Control Council expresses deep worry regarding any unsupported and deceptive claims that go against years of scientific evidence and worldwide regulatory authorizations," he stated in a message given to CBS News.
Elizabeth Napolitano made a contribution to this report.
Thank you for taking the time to read CBS NEWS.
Sign up for a new account or sign in to access additional features.
To proceed, kindly provide your email address.
Kindly provide a legitimate email address to proceed.
