A recent study from Sweden has raised concerns about the potential health risks of aspartame, one of the most widely used artificial sweeteners found in diet sodas, chewing gum, and low-sugar foods.
The study suggests that regular consumption of aspartame may contribute to heart disease by increasing insulin levels and promoting plaque buildup in the arteries.
Researchers at the Karolinska Institute conducted an experiment in which mice were fed a daily diet containing 0.15% aspartame—the human equivalent of drinking about three cans of diet soda per day. Over 12 weeks, the mice developed larger, fattier plaques in their arteries, as well as increased inflammation—both key contributors to cardiovascular disease.
The study linked these effects to a rise in insulin levels, which triggered a protein called CX3CL1. This protein was found to attach itself to artery walls, trapping immune cells and promoting inflammation, which can lead to atherosclerosis, a condition that narrows blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
While the study was conducted on animals, the findings suggest that prolonged consumption of aspartame could have negative effects on heart health. The researchers plan to conduct further studies on humans to verify the results.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has already classified aspartame as “possibly carcinogenic to humans,” but many health agencies, including the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have deemed it safe for consumption within recommended limits. Experts note that artificial sweeteners are widely used in food products, making it important to understand their long-term health effects.
Some health professionals believe these findings warrant caution when consuming artificial sweeteners. Stephanie Schiff, a registered dietitian, suggests reducing intake of both artificial sweeteners and added sugars, recommending natural alternatives like allulose, monk fruit, or stevia.
However, other experts argue that more research is needed before drawing definitive conclusions. Some point out that the study used mice genetically predisposed to heart disease and fed them a high-fat diet, which could have influenced the results.
With input from New York Post and the Daily Mail.
