Diet Drink Sweetener May Harm Heart and Mind

Recent research indicates that aspartame, a widely used artificial sweetener, may pose risks to cardiovascular and neurological health. A year-long study involving mice, where they consumed a dose equivalent to one-sixth of the recommended human intake, revealed significant findings. The artificial sweetener was associated with mild cardiac hypertrophy, a condition that stiffens the heart and impedes its pumping ability.

Furthermore, the study, published in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy, documented "altered neurobehavior" in the mice. Tests revealed a decline in their spatial awareness, memory retention, and overall cognitive speed. This suggests a potential link between aspartame and diminished brain function, even at low consumption levels.

Researchers concluded that aspartame, even at permitted doses, could compromise the function of major organs. They recommended a reassessment of current safety limits for human consumption, highlighting concerns about potential long-term effects on heart and brain health.