Study Finds Common Artificial Sweetener Linked To Higher Rates Of Heart Attack And Stroke

Erythritol is not the only artificial sweetener that is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Research published in 2022 found that higher intakes of other sweeteners such as aspartame, acesulfame potassium, and sucralose are similarly associated with a greater risk of coronary and cerebrovascular diseases.

Of all artificial sweeteners, aspartame is by far the most widely used. Found in thousands of food products worldwide, including diet soft drinks, research has clearly indicated it has carcinogenic effects and can cause neurological and behavioral disturbances. Notably, therefore, an independent analysis of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) risk assessment of this chemical has raised serious doubts over its safety.

Published in 2019 by scientists from the University of Sussex in the UK, the independent analysis points out that, of 73 studies indicating aspartame could be harmful, EFSA’s assessment discounted the results of every single one. Conversely, EFSA categorized as reliable 84 percent of studies claiming there was no evidence of harm from the sweetener. Given this apparent degree of bias, and the shortcomings of all previous official risk assessments of the chemical, the UK scientists argue that it would be premature to conclude aspartame is acceptably safe.

To learn more about the dangers of aspartame, see this article on our website.