Introduction
Aspartame is an artifical sweetner widely used as an alternative to sugar. It is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar. Aspartame is used in food products, medicines, and a wide range of other products as a sweetner (sugar substitute). It’s generally regarded as safe (GRAS) by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), with no known side effects.
Uses for
Aspartame is used to sweeten many different types of foods, and has been found to be particularly useful in diabetic diets, as it does not affect the blood sugar levels of diabetics. It is also used in many diet or ‘lite’ foods to reduce the amount of calories or sugar in a product. It is also used to sweeten medicines, such as cough syrups and chewable vitamins.
| Brand Name | Aspartame |
|---|---|
| Type | |
| Weight | |
| Generic | Aspartame |
| Manufacturer | |
| Available in | English বাংলা |
Mechanism of Action
Aspartame is made up of two amino acids, aspartic acid and phenylalanine. Aspartic acid is converted to aspartyl-phenylalanine, which is then broken down by the body into phenylalanine and methanol. Phenylalanine and methanol combine to form a sugar called aspartame- aromatic conjugate. When aspartame is consumed, the aromatic conjugate enters the small intestine, where it is broken down by the enzymes produced from the pancreas. The amino acids and other components of aspartame are then allowed to enter the bloodstream, and are carried to the rest of the body where they can be used for energy or tissue repair.
How Long Does it Take to Work?
Aspartame begins to take effect within a few minutes of consumption, but its effects may last for hours. It is also important to note that aspartame does not require digestion to be absorbed by the body; therefore, its effects will be felt much quicker than other sweeteners.
Absorption
Aspartame is mostly absorbed directly from the small intestine, and its absorption is not affected by the foods and drinks in which it is found. There is some evidence to suggest that aspartame may be rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, allowing it to act quickly on the body after consumption.
Route of Elimination
Aspartame is metabolized in the small intestine by enzymes produced by the pancreas. The metabolites are then carried to the rest of the body, including the liver, where it is eventually excreted in the urine.
Dosage
According to individual taste. 1 pellet is equivalent in sweetness to 1 tsf of sugar.The recommended daily dose of aspartame is up to 50 mg/kg of body weight, which is equivalent to 3.7 mg per kg of body weight for a healthy adult. It is important to note that this dose should not be exceeded, as consuming more than the recommended daily dose may lead to adverse effects.
Administration
Aspartame can be administered orally, and can be found in many food products and beverages. It can also be found as a powder or tablet form, which can be used to sweeten food and drinks.
Side Effects
There are no known serious side effects associated with aspartame, although some people may experience headaches, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, or irritability after consumption. People with pre-existing phenylketonuria (PKU) and those who are sensitive to aspartame should not consume aspartame.
Toxicity
Aspartame is generally considered to be non-toxic, with no evidence of organ toxicity. Additionally, clinical trials have shown that consuming up to 50 mg/kg of body weight per day had no adverse effects. However, care should still be taken when consuming aspartame, as it may cause adverse reactions in some individuals, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Precaution
Aspartame has been classified as generally safe (GRAS) for consumption by the US Food and Drug Administration, but as with all food additives, it is important to take caution when consuming it. Individuals with pre-existing phenylketonuria (PKU) and those who are sensitive to aspartame should not consume aspartame. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also consult their doctor before consuming aspartame.
Interaction
Aspartame may interact with medications and other substances. Individuals taking prescription medications should consult their doctor before consuming aspartame, as it may interact with certain medications and may cause adverse effects. Additionally, aspartame may interact with other sweeteners and preservatives, and should be taken with caution in these cases.
Disease Interaction
Aspartame may interact with certain medical conditions, and should be taken with caution in these cases. Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should not consume aspartame as it can lead to buildup of acidic compounds in the body. Aspartame should also be used with caution in individuals with diabetes, as it may interact with diabetes medications. Additionally, individuals with liver or kidney disease should consult their doctor before consuming aspartame.
Drug Interaction
Aspartame may interact with certain medications and may cause adverse effects. Individuals taking prescription or over-the-counter medications should consult their doctor before consuming aspartame. Additionally, people taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) should avoid aspartame, as it may interact with MAOIs and cause serious adverse reactions.
Food Interactions
Aspartame may interact with certain foods, and should be taken with caution in these cases. For example, aspartame may interact with alcohol, and consuming large amounts of alcohol while using aspartame may lead to adverse effects. Additionally, aspartame should be used cautiously with dairy products, citrus fruits, and tomato-based products, as these may also interact with aspartame.
Pregnancy Use
Aspartame is generally regarded as safe for use by pregnant and breastfeeding women, but women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctor before using aspartame. Additionally, it is important to avoid consuming large amounts of aspartame while pregnant or breastfeeding, as it may lead to adverse effects.
Lactation Use
Aspartame is generally regarded as safe for use by lactating women, but women who are breastfeeding should consult their doctor before using aspartame. Additionally, it is important to avoid consuming large amounts of aspartame while lactating, as it may lead to adverse effects.
Acute Overdose
It is not likely that an acute overdose of aspartame will occur, as it is only a small portion of a product that is usually consumed. However, if an acute overdose occurs, symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, headache, nausea, and vomiting may occur. If an acute overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.
Contraindication
Aspartame is contraindicated in individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) and those who are sensitive to aspartame. Additionally, aspartame should be used with caution in individuals with liver or kidney disease, diabetes, or hypertension.
Use Direction
Aspartame should be used according to the directions provided. Aspartame should not be consumed in excess, as it may lead to adverse reactions. Additionally, pregnant and lactating women should consult their doctor before using aspartame.
Storage Condition
Aspartame should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and away from sources of heat. Additionally, aspartame should be kept out of reach of children.
Volume of Distribution
Aspartame is quickly and easily absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and is distributed throughout the body within a few minutes. It is then metabolized in the small intestine by enzymes from the pancreas, and is eventually eliminated through the kidneys.
Half Life
Aspartame is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and its half-life is estimated to be around 10 minutes in the body. This means that aspartame is quickly metabolized and eliminated from the body.
Clearance
Aspartame is rapidly absorbed and metabolized in the small intestine by enzymes from the pancreas. It is then eliminated through the kidneys, with an estimated clearance of around 10 minutes.
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