Gabe Mirkin, M.D.
Researchers in Italy recently published a study
demonstrating that aspartame causes cancer in animals. It
showed increased incidence of malignant tumors, lymphomas,
leukemias, and cancers of the kidney and nerves (Journal of
Environmental Health Perspectives, November, 2005.) On the
same day, the Calorie Control Council, an international non-profit
association representing the low-calorie and reduced-fat food
and beverage industry, came out a report stating that:
"Overwhelming Scientific Evidence Confirms Safety of
Aspartame; Governments Recommend No Change in Dietary
Practices Related to Aspartame." Whom do you believe?
More than a thousand previous studies have shown
aspartame to be safe. At present, the U.S. Food & Drug
Administration (FDA) has said they are not recommending any
changes in the use of aspartame. When the Italian study was
reviewed by the United Kingdom Committee on Carcinogenicity
of Chemicals in Food, Consumer Products and the Environment,
the committee found aspects of study findings "implausible.”
Four long-term carcinogenicity studies have found no relationship
between aspartame and any form of cancer. Aspartame has
been consumed for nearly a quarter of a century, and is one of
the most thoroughly analyzed food ingredients, with more than
200 scientific studies concluding that it is safe.
Aspartame is composed of two amino acids, protein-
building blocks called aspartic acid and phenylalanine. Both
amino acids are found naturally in protein-containing foods,
including meats, grains and dairy products. They are also found
naturally in many foods such as fruits and vegetable and their
juices. The body handles the components from aspartame in the
same way it handles them when derived from other foods. I think
that it is unwise to consume huge amounts of any single food or
ingredient, but aspartame in small amounts appears to be safe
and in my opinion, it is preferable to the refined sugars it replaces
in your diet.
Checked 12/2/07