Will I get cancer if I drink beverages sweetened with aspartame?

Aspartame, a controversial artificial sweetener, raises concerns about cancer risk, but evidence remains inconclusive. Avoid excessive intake for a healthier lifestyle.

Will I get cancer if I drink beverages sweetened with aspartame?
Scientists continue to study the potential links between aspartame consumption and cancer risk Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

Aspartame, an artificial sweetener that has been in use for over 40 years, has become a common ingredient in a wide array of beverages and processed foods worldwide. Originally developed as a sugar substitute for weight-loss treatments due to its calorie-free nature, its applications have expanded significantly recently. However, concerns about its safety, particularly regarding its potential to increase the risk of cancer, have led to extensive research and varying conclusions.

Numerous studies have been conducted to assess the safety of aspartame, using two main approaches: animal testing on laboratory rodents and epidemiological studies in human populations. The results have been divergent, with some suggesting a potential link between aspartame and cancer risk, while others remain inconclusive.