A type of low-calorie artificial sweetener has hit the headlines recently, because it is set to become classed as “possibly carcinogenic” by the World Health Organisation (WHO) this month.
WHO's cancer research unit is preparing to release their review in July, which looked into aspartame and its effects on the human body. This classification means there is “some evidence” that it can cause cancer in humans, although the evidence is not conclusive.
Used to replace sugar in around 6,000 diet foods and drinks, aspartame is an ingredient in many popular carbonated drinks and sports drinks, as well as chewing gum and some yoghurts.
However, Doctor Neel Patel, a GP at LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor, warned the public of another health impact of aspartame - migraines.
Read on below to find out more.
What is aspartame?
According to Dr Patel: "Aspartame is an artificial flavouring which is more than 200 times sweeter than sugar. Popular in weight loss foods, it offers the sweet taste we crave, with fewer calories.
"On food labels, you may see aspartame referred to via its brand names - including Nutrasweet, Equal, and Sugar Twin.
"Aspartame is found in thousands of diet or low-calorie foods and drinks. For example, diet cola, hot chocolate powder, dessert syrups, cereal bars and salad dressings."
Is there a link between the sweetener and migraines?
The LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor conducted a survey earlier this year, which found a link between the sweetener and getting heavy migraines.
Dr Patel added: "It is thought there may be a link between eating and drinking food and beverages that contain aspartame and migraines.
"In a survey of 500 UK adults LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor conducted in March, almost one in ten said consuming products that contained artificial sweeteners like aspartame triggered migraines."
How can aspartame trigger a migraine?
The way the sweetener can trigger a migraine is by lowering the dopamine levels within a human, and raising this hormone can reduce migraine symptoms.
The expert said: "It is understood this may be because aspartame reduces dopamine levels. We know medications that increase dopamine levels in the brain have proven effective in reducing migraine symptoms.
"Therefore, as aspartame inhibits this hormone, this may explain the link."
What can I do to lower my symptoms?
The doctor recommended migraine sufferers to try and avoid food and drinks that contained the artificial sweetener - as it may help reduce their symptoms.
Dr Patel explained: "If you suffer from migraines, it might be worth considering avoiding, or at least limiting the number of foods and drinks you consume that contain aspartame.
"A helpful rule of thumb is to stick to food and drinks with minimal artificial ingredients.
"If you struggle to pronounce the name of an ingredient and it is not something you would find in a kitchen cupboard, there is a good chance it is an artificial additive.
"It is also a good idea to keep a food and activity journal. This can help to reveal any links between your diet and your migraines. Just record what you eat, and any migraine symptoms.
"If your migraines are particularly severe, frequent, or are getting worse, book an appointment with a doctor.
"They may prescribe migraine relief medication to prevent migraines and treat symptoms, helping you to get on with daily life."
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