Article Part-II/II
Dear Food People,
In the second part of this article, we will delve into the science behind the biochemical reaction that occurs within our bodies after consuming aspartame, why it is widely used in shelf-stable products, and some recommended remedies to neutralise the substance after consumption.
In the first part of this article, we reviewed the history, science, and controversies surrounding aspartame. Here’s a recap to refresh your memory:
Food and beverage industries have utilized aspartame (E951), an artificial sweetener that is 200 times sweeter than sugar and contains zero calories, for over 40 years.
Safety concerns and health risks associated with aspartame have recently sparked debates, but evidence remains limited and controversial.
Aspartame is found in various products, but only individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should be cautious due to the phenylalanine content.
The debate over whether aspartame should be subject to a sugar tax is ongoing, with varying opinions based on calorie content and health impact.
In the second part of this article, we will delve into the science behind the biochemical reaction that occurs within our bodies after consuming aspartame, why it is widely used in shelf-stable products, and some recommended remedies to neutralise the substance after consumption.
The Biochemical Ballet Inside You
Aspartame, the common artificial sweetener, may not sound exciting, but did you know it breaks down into three amino acids that play important roles in our bodies? Phenylalanine helps create proteins and neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine, while aspartic acid is involved in metabolic pathways and serves as a precursor to creating the neurotransmitter glutamate (a type of "chemical messenger"). Methanol, a form of alcohol, is also present in the body, as well as in certain foods and beverages. When aspartame is metabolised, methanol is converted to formaldehyde, but this is only present for a short time before converting into formic acid and then being eliminated through urine, similar to the reaction of consuming alcohol. Aspartame rapidly digests and does not accumulate in the body, processing its components in the same way as if they came from other dietary sources. So next time you reach for a diet soda, remember the fascinating science behind its sweet taste!
Why is Aspartame Everywhere?
Aspartame, the low-calorie sweetener, has been a popular choice for decades for those looking to reduce their sugar intake while still enjoying something sweet. Have you ever questioned the reason for its widespread use in sugar-free products? Well, there are a few reasons why it's appealing to food manufacturers.
Aspartame's sweetness is about 200 times that of sugar, requiring only a small amount to match sugar's sweetness. Additionally, aspartame is heat-stable, meaning it retains its sweetness and does not degrade during the cooking or baking process. This characteristic allows food products to maintain their desired level of sweetness even after undergoing heat treatment.
Moreover, aspartame offers an extended shelf life, which makes it an ideal choice for food manufacturers who require ingredients that can enhance the longevity of their products. Its inherent stability preserves the sweetness and overall quality of the product over time, allowing for extended storage without compromising taste or quality.
Finally, aspartame provides a cost-effective solution for food manufacturers. It is a relatively inexpensive sweetener, making it an attractive option for companies looking to optimise their production costs. Aspartame delivers sweetness at a reasonable price, allowing for the affordable production of a wide range of food products.
By leveraging the heat stability, extended shelf life, and cost-effectiveness of aspartame, food manufacturers can enhance the taste and quality of their products while effectively managing production costs. Aspartame's ability to withstand high temperatures, maintain sweetness over time, and offer affordability makes it a valuable ingredient for a variety of commercial food products.
How Aspartame Benefits People with Diabetes, Weight Loss Goals, and Oral Health Concerns?
Aspartame is a sugar substitute that has helped certain groups of people in a number of ways. For people with diabetes, sugar can be dangerous because it raises blood sugar levels. Aspartame does not raise blood sugar levels, so it can be a safe alternative for people with diabetes. For people who are trying to lose weight, sugar is high in calories, so reducing sugar intake can help. Aspartame is calorie-free, so it can be a helpful tool for weight loss. Sugar can also contribute to tooth decay, but aspartame does not, making it a good choice for people who are concerned about their teeth. Aspartame's stability at high temperatures allows it to be used in cooked or baked foods, giving it a long shelf life. While aspartame has many benefits, it is not a perfect substitute for sugar. It tastes different and can cause side effects in some people. If you are concerned about your health, it is important to choose aspartame-free products.
Conclusion
Aspartame has been a popular choice for decades. As a low-calorie substitute, it's a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the added calories, and its heat stability, extended shelf life, and cost effectiveness make it an ideal choice for food manufacturers. Aspartame is also a safe alternative for people with diabetes, a helpful tool for weight loss, and does not contribute to tooth decay. However, did you know that aspartame is one of the most rigorously studied ingredients in the food supply? Despite its benefits, it's not a perfect substitute for sugar and can cause side effects in some people. So, if you're concerned about your health, it's important to choose aspartame-free products. But don't worry, there are plenty of delicious and healthy alternatives out there to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Further Reading:
Wikipedia. 2006. "Aspartame Controversy." Wikipedia. Available at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aspartame_controversy
Aspartame.org. 2017. "History & Controversy." Aspartame.org. Available at: https://www.aspartame.org
Magnuson, B. A., et al. 2021. "Aspartame—True or False? Narrative Review of Safety Analysis of General Use in Products." PMC. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8072949/
Nill, Ashley. 2002. "The History of Aspartame." Harvard DASH. Available at: https://dash.harvard.edu/
US Right to Know. 2023. "Aspartame: Decades of Science Point to Serious Health Risks." USRTK.org. Available at: https://usrtk.org/
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