Heard the one about how aspartame single-handedly caused the Gulf War syndrome? In recent years, outlandish allegations – often spread via the Internet by individuals who have little scientific or medical expertise – have tried to link the low-calorie sweetener to every ailment ranging from Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson's disease to cancer and weight gain. However, the overwhelming body of scientific evidence via more than three decades of research and over 200 studies demonstrate that aspartame is safe and that aspartame is not associated with adverse side effects, even in very large amounts.
Here are some facts to help dispel the "Aspartame danger" myths.
Myth: Aspartame Causes Cancer and Brain Tumors.
Facts: Aspartame does not cause cancer according to the American Cancer Society, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the National Cancer Institute. Before the 1981 FDA approval of aspartame, it was extensively evaluated in four long-term and lifetime studies in rodents which received enormous doses of aspartame, equal to the amount of aspartame in more than 1,000 cans of diet soft drink daily over a lifetime for an adult human. There was no increase in brain tumors or any other type of cancer.
Myth: Aspartame Causes Weight Gain.
Facts: Changes in body weight are related to many factors such as diet, exercise and heredity. Products made with aspartame can help with diet and weight control because they are lower in calories than their full calorie counterparts. Based on the overwhelming scientific evidence from numerous scientific studies, aspartame does not increase hunger, appetite, or food intake or cause weight gain.
Myth: Aspartame Causes Lupus, Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.