Aspartame (added)

Aspartame is a non-nutritive sweetener used to add sweetness without calories, commonly found in diet sodas and sugar-free products. Studies have explored its effects on cancer risk, metabolic health, and safety for consumption. The NutriNet-Santé cohort study found no significant association between aspartame intake and cancer risk. However, a systematic review and network meta-analysis of non-nutritive sweetened beverages noted that these drinks can influence postprandial glycemic and endocrine responses, potentially affecting blood sugar levels and hormone regulation. Long-term metabolic effects of non-nutritive sweeteners have been mixed, with some evidence suggesting they may alter gut microbiota and insulin sensitivity over time. Aspartame is generally considered safe for most people, but individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) must avoid it due to the risk of accumulating phenylalanine, which can cause severe health issues. The evidence on aspartame's long-term effects remains limited, and more research is needed to fully understand its impacts.

Sources

• Artificial sweeteners and cancer risk: Results from the NutriNet-Santé population-based cohort study. (PMID:35324894)
• Sugar consumption, metabolic disease and obesity: The state of the controversy. (PMID:26376619)
• The Effect of Non-Nutritive Sweetened Beverages on Postprandial Glycemic and Endocrine Responses: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis. (PMID:36839408)
• Long-term metabolic effects of non-nutritive sweeteners. (PMID:38977130)
• Toxicological and Teratogenic Effect of Various Food Additives: An Updated Review. (PMID:35782077)
• Phenylalanine Hydroxylase Deficiency. (PMID:20301677)

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