Aspartame and Migraines: Weighing the Evidence

The Rise of Aspartame

Aspartame, also known by its E-number E951 in the European Union, revolutionized the market as a sugar substitute, especially benefiting diabetics. It is marketed under various brand names, including NutraSweet, Canderel, Equal, and Tropicana Slim. At its peak, aspartame was found in approximately 6,000 food and drink products, including chewing gums and vitamin supplements.

The Controversy: Aspartame and Migraines

Conflicting Studies

The debate over whether aspartame triggers migraines is far from settled. NutraSweet, a major manufacturer, cites a Duke University study that found no significant difference in headache incidence between those who consumed aspartame and those who took a placebo. However, this study was funded by NutraSweet, raising questions about its impartiality (Schiffman et al., 1987).

Independent Research

In contrast, a 1988 study by SM Koehler found that at least 50% of participants who consumed aspartame experienced an increase in migraine frequency and duration, while those on a placebo saw a decrease (Koehler & Glaros, 1988). Other independent studies have corroborated these findings, suggesting a link between aspartame and migraines.

FDA's Stance

The FDA has consistently maintained that aspartame is safe, citing studies that show no adverse effects. This position dates back to 1981 when President Reagan's administration approved aspartame despite concerns about its safety. Critics argue that the FDA's approval process was influenced by political and corporate interests.

Health Complaints and FDA Reports

Aspartame accounts for 75% of all complaints to the FDA regarding food additives, far surpassing other additives like MSG. Some research suggests that aspartame contains carcinogenic substances, potentially leading to conditions such as brain tumors and epilepsy.

Breakdown Products

Aspartame breaks down into several components, including aspartic acid, phenylalanine, methanol, formaldehyde, and formic acid. Methanol, in particular, is a concern as it metabolizes into formaldehyde, a probable human carcinogen according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Phenylketonuria (PKU)

Individuals with PKU, a rare genetic disorder, cannot metabolize phenylalanine properly. Foods containing aspartame must carry warning labels to inform those with PKU of its presence. While this is a specific concern, it highlights the broader issue of aspartame's potential health risks.

Real-World Implications

Case Studies

In a notable case, two patients experienced worsening migraines after taking a new form of the medication rizatriptan, which was sweetened with aspartame. This incident underscores the potential for aspartame to exacerbate migraines, even in medications designed to relieve them (Newman & Lipton, 2001).

Symptoms Beyond Migraines

Migraines are just one of many symptoms reported by those sensitive to aspartame. Other common complaints include excessive fatigue, dizziness, fainting spells, seizures, and severe depression.

The Financial and Commercial Angle

The widespread use of aspartame in weight-loss products complicates the issue. The financial and commercial implications of withdrawing aspartame from the market are significant. Some manufacturers are gradually replacing aspartame with alternatives like sucralose, but this transition is slow and costly.

Conclusion

The controversy surrounding aspartame is far from over. While the FDA continues to assert its safety, a growing number of studies and anecdotal reports suggest otherwise. Consumers may wish to avoid aspartame-containing products to see if their symptoms improve. As research continues, the debate over aspartame's safety will likely persist, making it crucial for individuals to stay informed and make their own decisions.

References

1. Schiffman SS, Buckley CE III, Sampson JA, et al. Aspartame and susceptibility to headache. N Engl J Med. 1987; 317: 1181-1185.
2. Koehler, SM, A. Glaros, 1988. "The Effect of Aspartame on Migraine Headache," Headache, Volume 28, page 10-14.
3. Newman & Lipton: 3.75 mg aspartame in Merck Maxalt-MLT worsens migraine Oct 2001 7.28.2
4. C. Trocho, R. Pardo, I. Rafecas, J. Virgili, X. Remesar, J. A. Fernandez-Lopez and M. Alemany (1998). "Formaldehyde derived from dietary aspartame binds to tissue components in vivo". Life Sciences, 63 (5): 337'349.