Is aspartame (artificial sweetener) harmful to human health?

From the Guidelines

Aspartame is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts, but recent studies have raised concerns about its potential effects on human health, and therefore, it is recommended to approach its consumption with caution and consider alternative sweeteners. The FDA, European Food Safety Authority, and other regulatory bodies have approved aspartame as a food additive after extensive safety reviews, with an acceptable daily intake of 50 mg per kilogram of body weight 1. However, a recent study published in 2024 has highlighted the need for continued monitoring of nonnutritive sweeteners, including aspartame, due to concerns about their potential impact on human health 1. Some individuals, such as those with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder that prevents the breakdown of phenylalanine, an amino acid in aspartame, should avoid or limit aspartame consumption 1. While the scientific consensus based on decades of research indicates that moderate consumption of aspartame poses minimal risk for most healthy individuals, recent studies have suggested potential concerns about its long-term effects, and therefore, it is recommended to consume aspartame in moderation and consider alternative sweeteners 1.

Key Considerations

• Aspartame is approved by regulatory bodies for consumption by the general public, including people with diabetes 1
• The acceptable daily intake of aspartame is 50 mg per kilogram of body weight, which is much higher than what most people consume 1
• Recent studies have raised concerns about the potential effects of aspartame on human health, and therefore, caution is advised 1
• Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid or limit aspartame consumption 1

Recommendations

• Consume aspartame in moderation, considering the acceptable daily intake and individual health needs 1
• Consider alternative sweeteners, especially for individuals with concerns about aspartame's potential effects on human health 1
• Healthcare professionals should continue to recommend reductions in sugar intake and calories, with or without the use of nonnutritive sweeteners, and regularly assess individual use of nonnutritive sweeteners based on the acceptable daily intake 1

From the Research

Potential Health Risks of Aspartame

• Aspartame consumption has been linked to potential side effects, including disruption of the oxidant/antioxidant balance, induction of oxidative stress, and damage to cell membrane integrity 2.
• The literature suggests that aspartame and its metabolites may affect a variety of cells and tissues, causing a deregulation of cellular function and leading to systemic inflammation 2.
• Some studies have found that aspartame consumption can affect glucose metabolism and gut hormones, although the evidence is contradictory and more research is needed to determine the exact effects 3.

Safety Studies and Recommended Daily Intake

• The acceptable daily intake (ADI) of aspartame has been established at 40 mg/kg/day by the World Health Organization and regulatory authorities in Europe and Canada, and at 50 mg/kg/day by the US Food and Drug Administration 4.
• Studies have shown that actual aspartame consumption is generally well below the ADI, with estimates ranging from 2-10 mg/kg/day 4.
• However, some individuals, such as those with phenylketonuria (PKU), may need to limit their aspartame consumption due to the risk of phenylalanine intake 5, 6.

Special Considerations for Certain Populations

• Individuals with PKU may be at risk of accidental aspartame consumption due to unclear labeling or changing recipes, which can lead to anxiety, guilt, and social isolation 5.
• Patients with PKU may need to take precautions to avoid aspartame-containing medications, and healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks and benefits of using these medications in this population 6.