So, artificial sweeteners are commonly found in foods aims at consumers who are looking to lower the number of calories they take in and also the diet industry. Excitotoxins is the name that experts use to call common sweeteners. These excitotoxins stimulate sensory areas of the brain and they can also stimulate appetite and craving sensations. However, a lot of these sweeteners are found to have potential side effects that are harmful. There are 4 different types of artificial sweetener. These are Aspartame (E951), Sucralose (E955), Acesulfame K (E950) and Saccharin (E954).
Aspartame has received more complaints about aspartame than any other additive. It's been linked to many different health conditions like numbness, depression, dizziness, aching muscles, seizures and high blood pressure. Aspartame is also sold under many different brand names such as Equal, Spoonful and NutraSweet. However, it's present in well over 6000 food products.
Sucralose is linked in to the shrinking of the thymus gland and the enlargement of the kidneys and liver as well as decreased red blood cell count, diarrhoea and reduced growth. Sucralose is also sold under the brand name Splenda.
Acesulfame K stimulates the insulin which then causes hypoglycaemia. This happens when a response higher than is necessary follows low calorie intake.
Saccharin is listed currently as an anticipated human carcinogen. In sensitive people, this can cause insomnia, irritability, diarrhoea, itching and headaches.
There are 5 main additive categories, these are E100's (colourings), E200's (preservatives mostly), E300's (acidity regulators, anti-caking agents and antioxidants), E400's (thickeners, stabilisers, gelling agents and emulsifiers) and E900's (sugars, sweeteners and waxes).
There are also other E numbers that are carrier solvents, bulking agents, glazing agents, flour treatment agents, anti-foaming agents, firming agents, flavour enhancers and raising agents or modified starches.
When it comes do additive safety, the majority have been shown to be safe when kept within the acceptable limits although 70 additives have been known in some people to cause reactions (allergic) and also intolerance. It's also been known that 150 additives overall have had concerns about them as in testing there have been some adverse reactions. It's also been known that 30 additives are harmful.
It's also worth noting that aspartame, saccharin and monosodium are extremely popular in the food market. These additives along with others should be minimised in ours diets.
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