Aspartame
Aspartame is a low-calorie artificial sweetener used in a variety of food products. It is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar, allowing for sweetness without the caloric impact. Aspartame is made from two amino acids, phenylalanine and aspartic acid.
- Category
- Artificial Sweetener
- Molecular Formula
- C14H18N2O5
- Mechanism of Action
- Aspartame acts by stimulating the sweet taste receptors on the tongue to mimic the sweetness of sugar.
- Evidence Grade
- A
Other Names
- AminoSweet
- NutraSweet
- Equal
- Canderel
Primary Benefits
- Calorie reduction in diet
- Suitable for individuals with diabetes as it doesn't affect blood sugar levels
Recommended Dosage
| Adults |
Up to 50 mg/kg body weight per day |
| Children |
Up to 40 mg/kg body weight per day |
Side Effects
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Digestive symptoms
Precautions
- People with phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid aspartame as they cannot metabolize phenylalanine.
Interactions
- No known significant interactions
Key References
- Magnuson BA, Burdock GA, Doull J, Kroes RM, Marsh GM, Pariza MW, Spencer PS, Waddell WJ, Walker R, Williams GM (2007). Aspartame: a safety evaluation based on current use levels, regulations, and toxicological and epidemiological studies.
No comments yet.