Aspartame and the brain: a systematic review of neurological effects

Ravneet Kaur; Ruchi Das; Sanjana Tanwar; Joshua Sajja

doi:10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20242229

Authors

Ravneet Kaur Department of General Medicine, Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi, India
Ruchi Das Department of General Medicine, Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi, India
Sanjana Tanwar Department of General Medicine, Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi, India
Joshua Sajja Department of General Medicine, Siddhartha Medical College, Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20242229

Keywords:

Aspartame, Artificial sweetener, Neurodegeneration, Neurotoxicity

Abstract

Artificial sweeteners like Aspartame are popular due to their low caloric value. They are used as a substitute for sugar, especially for individuals with diabetes and obesity. However, its effects on the neurological system have been debated. Studies suggest aspartame metabolism can lead to altered neurotransmitter synthesis. This review aims to gather literature on the neurotoxic effects of aspartame in humans, aiming to curb this problem. The review was conducted using PubMed, Europe PMC, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. The quality and risk of bias of the extracted studies were assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist, specifically designed for Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). The systematic review of aspartame consumption was conducted using PRISMA guidelines and included 11 articles. The studies investigated the effects of aspartame consumption on behavior, cognition, and neurological function through RCTs of varying durations and across different age groups. Aspartame was the primary intervention in all studies, with some neuro biomarkers assessed mainly phenylalanine and tyrosine levels. While some studies reported negative impacts on the above-mentioned parameters others found no significant adverse effects. The review of studies on the effects of aspartame consumption on behavior, cognition, and neurological function reveals mixed results. Neurobiomarkers, specifically phenylalanine and tyrosine, were not consistently assessed across all investigations, making it difficult to establish a clear link between aspartame consumption and neurobiological changes. The studies reviewed provide valuable insights into aspartame effects but highlight complexity. Further research is needed to address limitations.

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