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Despite rumors to the contrary, scientists say that moderate intake of artificial sweeteners isn’t dangerous for human health. Similarly, there is no scientific evidence that artificial sweeteners like aspartame cause multiple sclerosis (MS) or that cutting them out will cure the disease.
However, some people with MS wonder if they should avoid artificial sweeteners. “Has anyone had a reaction to artificial sweeteners?” one MyMSTeam member asked.
Another said, “I’ve been drinking diet soda for years — even went off for six months — and had no change, no nothing to my MS.”
Read on to find out the essentials about artificial sweeteners and MS.
Artificial sweeteners are also called high-intensity or non-nutritive sweeteners. This is because they provide a sweet flavor without any calories or nutrients. People use them as sugar substitutes in foods and beverages. These products are often marketed as “sugar-free” or “zero-calorie.”
Sugar-free foods and beverages are a mainstay of many weight-loss diets, especially those that stress low carbohydrates. Artificial sweeteners also give people with health conditions like diabetes access to sweet-tasting foods and drinks without directly raising their blood sugar levels.
Several artificial sweeteners are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They’re “generally recognized as safe” for use as a flavor additive. Some artificial sweeteners include:
Stevia (Truvia) is another sugar-free sweetener that’s gained popularity in recent years. Unlike the chemical sweeteners above, stevia isn’t considered artificial. It comes from an herb called the stevia plant. Because it’s naturally 400 times sweeter than table sugar, it takes a tiny amount to make food taste sweet.
Aspartame tends to be the most controversial of the artificial sweeteners. However, the FDA says that aspartame has been studied quite a bit. Nonetheless, the research remains somewhat unclear. And many people aren’t fully confident in the safety of aspartame.
Most research shows that using artificial sweeteners within the acceptable daily intake (ADI) does not pose a significant health risk to people.
The ADI is the recommended limit set by the FDA. Scientists determine ADI based on research and safety data. The ADI for aspartame is 50 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day. (One kilogram equals 2.2 pounds.)
This means someone who weighs 132 pounds would need to use 75 packets of aspartame per day to reach their upper limit. For most people, including those with MS, there’s no strong evidence that aspartame in moderation is dangerous.
Food additives, including artificial sweeteners, are strictly regulated by the FDA. This means that before they can be used in foods and drinks sold in the U.S., they must be proven safe and nontoxic. The approval process requires in-depth research before a decision is made.
There’s no scientific evidence that aspartame causes MS or worsens its symptoms. However, some people living with MS have shared that they feel better avoiding it — whether due to personal sensitivities or bladder-related symptoms.
Bladder problems are common in MS, affecting around 90 percent of people at some point. Some animal studies have looked at possible links between artificial sweeteners and bladder function, but results have been mixed and may not apply to people.
There are lots of good reasons to avoid eating too much sugar, especially if you have MS. Diets high in sugar promote inflammation, which is a key feature of MS. Evidence from animal studies suggests that eating a diet that’s high in sugar and unhealthy fats may increase disease activity in MS.
Eating too much sugar can also affect the body’s balance of healthy bacteria. These bacteria are responsible for essential functions, including how the immune system works. Sugar intake is linked to other health problems, including obesity and type 2 diabetes. These issues can make daily life with MS more challenging and raise the risk of disability.
However, that’s not to say artificial sweeteners are a better way to satisfy your sweet tooth. Instead, opt for naturally sweet foods that have beneficial nutrients and fiber. For example, adding unsweetened cocoa powder to yogurt or cereal gives a chocolate-flavored antioxidant boost. You can also take advantage of the sweetness in berries, dates, and ripe bananas to make nutritious treats at home.
Nothing is ever 100 percent risk-free, but current research shows that artificial sweeteners are generally considered safe — including for people living with MS.
If you have MS and any of the following health factors, it’s best to avoid artificial sweeteners until your healthcare provider gives you the go-ahead:
Everyone’s body is different. It never hurts to tune in to how your body feels after eating different foods. You can try eliminating artificial sweeteners from your diet for a week or two and see if you notice a difference in how you feel. Meeting with a registered dietitian nutritionist can help you find ways to improve your diet with MS.
Ask your neurologist if you have concerns about the effects of aspartame or other ingredients on your MS symptoms. Be sure to keep them updated before making any big changes to your usual diet.
On MyMSTeam, people share their experiences with multiple sclerosis, get advice, and find support from others who understand.
Have you ever questioned the safety of aspartame or other sweeteners? Let others know in the comments below.
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I only use Stevia. I don't think it was mentioned but maybe because it is not considered artificial? It is very sweet which I love. My son who is a scientist at the Buck's Institute for Aging sent… read more
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