Does Aspartame Make You Gain Weight?

Aspartame, more recognizable in its brand names, such as NutraSweet and Equal, is an artificial sweetener used in more than 5,000 products worldwide. Companies that manufacture aspartame claim that this low-calorie sweetener has health benefits and can be part of a healthy diet. While these claims may be true, recent scientific studies have found that aspartame may not be a dieter's panacea and may actually lead to weight gain.

History

• Aspartame was discovered in 1965 by researchers at G.D. Searle and Co. The team of scientists testing the substance on animals found that despite its low calorie content, animal subjects often experienced weight gain leading to gross obesity. Aspartame was eventually made available for public consumption in the United States in 1981.

Effects

• In 1993 the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released 61 reported adverse reactions to aspartame in humans, including weight gain. While no one disputes aspartame's low calorie content, the point of contention is whether aspartame actually stimulates your appetite.

Expert Insight

• Aspartame does have some stringent critics, like Dr. James Bowen. Bowen is a widely published neurologist who believes that the diet soda you reach for actually causes you to crave more calorie rich carbohydrates and increase weight gain.The most severe aspartame critics, including Bowen, also believe aspartame is linked to cancer and other serious diseases. The scientific mainstream does not support the view that aspartame is dangerous (the U.S. Food and Drug Administration deemed it fit for consumption in 1981). On the other hand, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has noted in an official memorandum that weight gain is a potential side effect of aspartame consumption.

Considerations

• According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity rates in the United States have increased dramatically since 1985. With obesity becoming a national epidemic, it's understandable that consumers are reaching for foods and beverages that help them adhere to a healthier diet. Aspartame might seem like a good, low calorie alternative to sugar. Though the FDA has ruled aspartame fit for consumption, the HHS has also noted weight gain as a potential reaction.

Prevention/Solution

• Aspartame is a low-calorie alternative to sugar, but it is certainly no substitute for a balanced diet and exercise to aid weight loss. There is also evidence that it may actually increase the appetite. If you find your appetite is increased by the consumption of aspartame, you may want to switch your beverage of choice to water or unsweetened teas.