Colas and soft drinks have been implicated in the press and on the web as causing seizures. Several different ingredients and associated mechanisms are possible causes of seizures, including: aspartame, which is used as an artificial, low calorie sweetener in diet sodas; the quantity of fluid that is sometimes consumed by cola-fanatics; caffeine, which is an ingredient in several sodas; and high fructose corn syrup, which is used as a sweetener in many sodas.
Aspartame in Coke
There is considerable evidence that the artificial sweetener, aspartame, contains ingredients that increase vulnerability to seizures. Aspartame is composed of amino acids phenylalanine and aspartic acid. These amino acids can pass through the blood-brain barrier and directly affect neurological functioning. Aspartic acid is classified as an excitotoxin---a chemical that excites neurons. Phenylalanine is naturally present in the brain, but becomes elevated beyond normal levels when it is consumed orally, whether in cola or in some other food or beverage. It is thought by some experts, as reported at MSBHolistics.com, that the combined excitatory action of aspartic acid and elevated levels of phenylalanine make aspartame such a potent factor in lowering seizure thresholds in those who are at risk.
Amount of Fluid
BCEplipsy.com reports that more important than the presence or absence of aspartame is the amount of fluid consumed. Some cola-holics will drink 10 to 12 cans of cola per day, and it is this excessive amount of fluid consumption and the consequent over-hydration that lowers the seizure threshold.
Caffeine
The caffeine contained in colas is an unlikely direct cause of cola-induced seizures. Caffeine is a stimulant, and stimulants are known to decrease the likelihood of seizures. In fact, stimulants such as methylphenidate have historically been used as treatments for seizure. There is some indication that people with seizure disorders self-medicate with caffeine to enhance alertness or counteract the drowsiness that is a side effect of their anti-seizure medications.
High Fructose Corn Syrup
The intense sugar load contained in colas might potentially induce a hypoglycemic seizure in people who are at risk. Hypoglycemia is a condition of low blood sugar that usually occurs in its more severe form to people with diabetes. When there is a sudden sugar over-load in sensitive people, the release of insulin can trigger the release of a cascade of hormones, including epinephrine, which causes blood glucose levels to suddenly drop too low. Severe hypoglycemia, though rare, could lead to seizures, coma or death.
Conclusions
There is enough compelling evidence of a link between aspartame and seizures in those who are vulnerable to conclude that aspartame should be avoided by people with seizure disorders. One problem is that people don't know they have a seizure disorder until they have a seizure, and aspartame is reported to be a potent trigger.
