Aspartame Myths: Other

Allegations spread via the Internet and the media by a few individuals that aspartame may be associated with a myriad of ailments are not based on science. These have come to be called “urban myths.”

Here is what the National Multiple Sclerosis Society had to say about such allegations:

“These stories claim that Aspartame is the cause of a variety of illnesses, including MS, lupus, Alzheimer disease, Parkinson disease, birth defects, Desert Storm syndrome, brain tumors, and seizures. However, please bear in mind the following:

• The claims are not documented;
  
  
• There is no evidence for "epidemics" of multiple sclerosis, lupus, and some of the other diseases as claimed in the articles;
  
  
• There is no evidence that authors of the claims have any scientific, medical, or academic credentials; nor is there any evidence that they have done any scientific research to support their claims; and
  
  
• No published, peer-reviewed scientific research exists that supports the claims being made in the articles.”

Addtionally, a scientific study done at Georgetown University has shown that aspartame has no effect on Parkinson’s disease (PD). Further, The National Parkinson Foundation, Inc. has concluded, “The cause of PD is unknown, PD existed before aspartame was invented, there is no evidence aspartame blocks the absorption of levodopa.” (Levodopa is the major drug used to treat PD.) In dispelling myths about Alzheimer’s disease, the Alzheimer’s Association concluded there was “no scientific evidence of a link between aspartame and memory loss.”

The Lupus Foundation of America has concluded that there is “no specific proof of an association with aspartame as a cause or worsening of SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus)” and “People with lupus should always consult with their physician before making any changes in their medical treatment, diet, exercise or other routine based on information received via the Internet or other sources lacking known credentials.”

The safety of aspartame has been proven again and again, backed by more than three decades of research and over 200 scientific studies. Recently, several governments and expert committees carefully evaluated the Internet allegations and found them to be false, reconfirming the safety of aspartame. In addition, leading health authorities, such as the American Medical Association, the American Dietetic Association, and the American Diabetes Association, agree that aspartame is safe.