Although statistics show a decline, Americans are still the number one consumer of diet soda in the world. Marketed as an alternative to the fattening sugar contained in regular soft drinks, the consumption of aspartame contained in diet soft drinks (and other foods) is a dangerous mistake. To think that you are somehow benefiting from drinking a product that is advertised as low or zero calorie and labeled "Diet" is misleading.

What is Aspartime?

Aspartame is a super strong artificial sweetener basically made with genetically modified bacteria - E. coli. Composed of two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine (look on the can) with a wood alcohol bond. The FDA insists these levels of bacteria are safe for consumption. Originally most all diet soft drinks used the artificial sweetener saccharin, but during the early 1980's after concerns about it's safety many companies switched to the alternative aspartame.

Is It Safe?

The primary sweeteners of today's soft drinks (aspartame) has been the subject of controversy. Although approved for human consumption, many independent studies have shown links to illness such as weight gain and diabetes, cancer, and sleep disorders among others.

Risks Of Illness

A major side effect of aspartame is high risk of brain tumors and Alzheimer's disease. The consumption of aspartame in your diet can result in a deficiency of antioxidants making if more difficult for your body to fight disease.

Studies have shown that rats given the human equivalent of four to five glasses of diet soda a day over the period of it's life span (about three years) several types of cancers had developed. The doctors attributed this to the break down of methonal that leaves formaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen.

What Is In Your Best Interest?

With all the study and known health hazards of aspartame over the past 30 years, why is it allowed for our consumption? It depends on who you ask. Studies funded by the artificial sweetener companies maintain it's safe to use. Studies not funded by the sweetener industry say it is not safe to use and is fighting for it's removal.

Alternatives

Even if the amount of aspartame a person consumes on a daily basis is said to be acceptable, there is still health risks in artificial sweeteners and preservatives. Foods and drinks loaded with aspartame tend to keep you hooked and prevent you from making more natural food choices. Just because it's labeled "0 Calorie" doesn't mean it's good for you. Humans are very adaptable and can get used to anything. Try drinking sparkling water with a wedge of lemon or lime. If you have been using artificial sweetener's try the sweet herb stevia as an all natural and safe alternative.