How to Know the Dangers of Artificial Sweeteners

The abundance of refined white sugar in our diets has become a great concern. There are substitutes on the market to help us avoid refined white sugar. We can find them for sale in supermarkets and in sugar-free, low-calorie and zero-calorie foods. But these sugar substitutes may not be safe for everyone. Here is a list of popular sugar substitutes that have raised concerns.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Consider NutraSweet/Equal/Canderel (Aspartame): Studies on aspartame reveal that it is carcinogenic. Carcinogens are materials that promote the development of cancer. In European testing, female animals were given aspartame. They developed leukemia and lymphomas. In proportionate weight to humans, these dosages of aspartame were lower than what is considered safe for human consumption.
2. Consider Sweet ‘N Low (Saccharin): Saccharin has also been tested for being carcinogenic and for the potential to cause bladder cancer. It caused bladder cancer to develop in male rats. But a wide range of studies regarding harm to humans has been inconclusive. While the Food and Drug Administration has removed saccharin from its carcinogen list, it is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women. Saccharin is also a sulfonamide and has caused problems for people allergic to sulfa drugs. This is especially true for children and infants who take formulas made with saccharin. Some of these problems include: skin conditions, headaches, photosensitivity, nausea, tongue blisters and diarrhea. In infants it has caused insomnia and irritability.
3. Consider Splenda (Sucralose): The FDA acknowledges that sucralose may contain up to two percent impurities. These include methanol, arsenic and heavy metals. Sucralose is made by chlorinating sugar, and Splenda contains chlorocarbons as a result. Side effects from consuming chlorocarbons include liver and kidney swelling and inflammation. There haven’t been extensive studies done on sucralose. There may be more issues discovered in the future.
4. Consider DiabetiSweet/Sunett/Sweet One (Acesulfame potassium): Like sucralose, there hasn’t been a lot of testing done on Ace-K, or acesulfame potassium. It does contain the carcinogen methylene chloride. Long-term consumption of this carcinogen causes liver and kidney problems, nausea, depression and headaches. The FDA considers Ace-K safe for now.

Tips & Warnings

• If you believe you may have side effects from eating artificial sweeteners or you are concerned about consuming certain artificial sweeteners, consult your doctor.
• If you are diabetic, pregnant or nursing, check with your doctor before using an artificial sweetener.
• While artificial sweeteners may have been approved by the FDA, they are not natural and are chemically processed. Any food source that is not natural has the potential to cause harm.