Aspartame is a noncaloric, artificial sweetener used in diet drinks and other commercially prepared foods. Aspartame has been on the market since the 1980s under several names, including Nutrasweet, Equal and Canderel. However, questions have surfaced about the safety and side effects of using this product. According to the Health Freedom Alliance, more than 90 side effects have been associated with using aspartame.
Eyes and Ears
Using Aspartame can affect vision and the eyes, as well as hearing. According to the I-see website, the physical properties of aspartame are potentially toxic to the optic nerves and retina. Reported side effects include blindness, decreased night vision, eye pain and dry eyes. Other vision problems include blurriness, seeing bright flashes and tunnel vision. Reported ear problems include intolerance of noise and ringing in the ears.
Neurologic
According to the Organic Consumers Association, aspartame destroys the nervous system and causes symptoms similar to Lou Gehrig's disease and multiple sclerosis, including loss of muscle control and weakness. Aspartame has been blamed for headaches and other neurological programs, including seizures, dizziness, tremors and slurring of speech. Other side effects can include loss of memory, confusion, sleepiness and tremors.
Psychological
The effects of aspartame are not only physical. Mental and psychological problems have been blamed on aspartame as well, including severe depression and irritability, anxiety and personality changes. When caused by aspartame, these symptoms are not successfully treated with anti-depressants.
Triggers
According to the Health Freedom Alliance, aspartame poisoning can mimic the symptoms of other diseases, or trigger those diseases. These include chronic fatigue syndrome, Lyme's disease, thyroid diseases, fibromyalgia, lupus and certain cancers. Often people are misdiagnosed with these diseases because the symptoms are similar to those of aspartame poisoning.
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