Does Aspartame Cause Acne?
Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that is often used as a sugar substitute in foods and beverages. It is approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar, but it contains almost no calories. Aspartame has been the subject of much debate over the years, with some people claiming that it can cause a variety of health problems, including acne. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that aspartame causes acne.
One of the main reasons why people believe that aspartame can cause acne is because it is a type of excitotoxin. Excitotoxins are substances that can overstimulate neurons in the brain, leading to a variety of problems, including seizures, headaches, and skin problems. However, the amount of aspartame that is typically consumed in foods and beverages is not high enough to cause these problems.
Another reason why people believe that aspartame can cause acne is because it can raise insulin levels. Insulin is a hormone that helps the body to use glucose for energy. When insulin levels are high, the body can produce more oil, which can lead to acne breakouts. However, the amount of aspartame that is typically consumed in foods and beverages is not high enough to cause a significant increase in insulin levels.
Finally, some people believe that aspartame can cause acne because it is a type of phenylalanine. Phenylalanine is an amino acid that is found in many foods, including meat, eggs, and dairy products. In people with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder, phenylalanine can build up in the blood and cause a variety of health problems, including seizures, intellectual disability, and skin problems. However, aspartame is not a source of phenylalanine for people with PKU.
Overall, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that aspartame causes acne. While it is possible that aspartame could trigger acne breakouts in some people, this is likely to be a rare occurrence. If you are concerned about the potential link between aspartame and acne, you can talk to your doctor.
