Doctors have dismissed the claims that artificial sweeteners pose significant risks, especially after the recent suggestion that aspartame, found in Diet Coke, could be a potential carcinogen. A thorough safety review of aspartame involving over 1,300 studies has led the World Health Organization (WHO) to consider reclassifying it. However, doctors argue that while there may be a weak link between aspartame and cancer in animals, no studies have proven that it causes cancer in humans. On the other hand, the connection between added sugar and various health problems is clear. Sugar consumption raises the risk of obesity, pre-diabetes, diabetes, and other related conditions. Nutritionist Dr. Deidre Tobias from Harvard University explains that although sugar is natural, the belief that it is healthier is misleading. She emphasizes that the evidence supports reducing added sugar in our diets, as it is consistently linked to worse metabolic health. In comparison, artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, can be a beneficial alternative for those trying to quit sugary beverages temporarily, especially for diabetics who need to control their sugar intake. Dietitian Kim Pearson suggests that natural sweeteners like stevia and xylitol tend to be healthier choices. Stevia can be used in drinks, baked goods, and alcoholic beverages, while xylitol can be found in sauces, breath mints, and toothpaste. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has yet to publicly announce its ruling on aspartame, but its decision will only assess the potential hazards and not the safe consumption levels. This advice will be provided by the Joint WHO and Food and Agriculture Organization’s Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and national regulators. JECFA’s findings on aspartame will be announced on July 14. Aspartame has been deemed safe for consumption within limits set by JECFA since 1981. Although the IARC’s leaked ruling suggests limited evidence, it places aspartame below more serious categories of potential carcinogens. It is important to note that sugar contributes to several health issues, including heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and obesity. It can also cause inflammation and insulin resistance, leading to pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes. The FDA maintains that scientific evidence supports the safety of aspartame when manufactured properly and used according to approved conditions. Experts argue that the dose of exposure determines the potential harm caused by a substance. Aspartame has undergone rigorous safety evaluations before being approved for food use. It is currently the most commonly used artificial sweetener worldwide and considered safe at current levels of consumption.
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