Aspartame : sweet poison
Much has been written about aspartame (nutrasweet), the most commonly used of all artificial sweeteners, which has been at the center of numerous rows concerning safety. A quick search of google turns up thousand upon thousand of aspartame websites, few of which are complimentary (and those, predictably, come from the manufacturers). As a result, we at NHIC have decided that aspartame and related aspartame poisoning needs a review.
So here it is, the definitive guide to aspartame and aspartame poisoning.
Aspartame History
Aspartame began its somewhat controversial life not as a sweetener, but as a potential cancer therapy. It was given a limited approval in 1974, however after receiving additional studay data showing that aspartame might cause severe brain injuries in mice, the FDA ordered an aspartame review.
The review, published in 1975, and a subsequent further review revealed unethical, immoral and downright fraudulent behaviour on the part of aspartame's manufacturers, G.S. Searle & co (now a part of the Monsanto group). Subsequent aspartame investigations and even criminal proceedings always seemed to stall, shortly after which those responsible for the investigations went to work for Searle or their attorneys, PR company and other "friends".
Following several investigations into aspartame, it was clear it would not be approved for general use. Then along came a certain Donald Rumsfeld, to be CEO of Searle. Immediately things changed. Commissioners who had previously voted against aspartame changed their minds . . . then left for cushy jobs with Searle-related firms. Rumsfeld had Reagan appoint a "friendly" to head the FDA and pretty soon aspartame was "approved" - against all medical evidence, logic and process of law.
What exactly is aspartame?
Aspartame is composed of three main compounds - aspartic acid, phenylalanine and methanol (wood alcohol). Phenylalanine is an amino acid and is known to affect several neurotransmitters (a substance that is used to transmit signals in brain and nerve cells). It makes up 50% of the aspartame molecule and has been associated with cancers for many years, even being cited as "essential" for cancer development.
Methanol is the most basic form of alcohol (as opposed to ethanol, the kind commonly found in alcoholic drinks). It is an extremely poisonous compound, which, if drunk can cause many problems, including blindness and death. Although only 10% of the aspartame molecule, methanol is deadly and is readily released and broken down when aspartame is ingested, releasing formic acid and formaldehyde (embalming fluid!), both of which are poisonous.
The third component, aspartic acid is also an amino acid, which is widely recognised to excite nerve cells and has been linked to many brain and nerve problems including HDD, anxiety attacks, depression, headaches and migraines.
Aspartame summary
In summary, aspartame is not nice stuff. You may think that by drinking "diet" sodas and "lite" products, you are helping yourself by avoiding sugar. Think again. Although sugar is a poison, it is nowhere near as bad as aspartame.
The simple rule is not to use aspartame at all. Ever!
Back from Aspartame to harmful chemicals
Aspartame lawsuits. Find out how some people are getting past the marketing hype and making those responsible for aspartame poisoning pay - literally.
Sweet Misery. Watch excerpts from the video that has exposed the aspartame scandal to the World
Aspartame has been linked to many neurological diseases, including depression. Find out more about depressive illness and sources of help at Depression Help For You
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