Your adrenal glands maintain numerous metabolic processes and help to control the production of certain hormones. Although adrenal fatigue is a common term, this condition is not a true medical diagnosis, according to MayoClinic.com. Adrenal fatigue refers to a group of nonspecific symptoms that resemble the symptoms of adrenal insufficiency. There is no evidence that aspartame contributes to adrenal fatigue or other problems that may affect adrenal function.
Adrenal Fatigue
Adrenal insufficiency occurs when your adrenal glands produce insufficient amounts of hormones. Diagnostic tests can measure and confirm low levels of adrenal hormones. Adrenal fatigue refers to the existence of similar symptoms in the absence of positive test results. Proponents of this diagnosis believe that diagnostic tests are not sensitive enough to measure minor deficiencies of adrenal hormones that may cause these symptoms. Common symptoms of adrenal fatigue include digestive problems, body aches, nervousness, fatigue and sleep disturbances.
Aspartame
The FDA approved aspartame as a food additive in 1981. The General Accounting Office reviewed and confirmed the approval and safety of aspartame in 1987. Although aspartame appears to be safe for general use as a sugar substitute, some studies show that this sweetener may pose a health risk for people with liver disease, phenylketonuria or hyperphenylalanine, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. There is no evidence that aspartame affects the health or function of your adrenal glands.
Adrenal Disorders
Adrenal gland disorders may occur for a variety of reasons, such as tumors, birth defects and genetic disorders. Examples of adrenal gland disorders include Cushing's syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia and pituitary tumors. Adrenal gland disorders can alter several body functions, including metabolic process, regulation of salt and water levels, stress response and sexual maturation. Adrenal insufficiency may cause loss of body hair, lightheadedness and low blood pressure. The treatment for adrenal problems depends on the underlying cause. Medication, radiation therapy or surgery may help to resolve and correct adrenal gland disorders.
Precautions
Notify your doctor if you experience the nonspecific symptoms of adrenal insufficiency. Even vague symptoms can signal the presence of a health condition that requires medical diagnoses and treatment. Avoid products that contain aspartame if you have the genetic disease phenylketonuria, advanced liver disease or hyperphenylaline.
