How Coca Cola is Causing Cancer According to WHO

According to a recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO), the artificial sweetener used in Coca Cola’s low-calorie products, aspartame, is possibly carcinogenic to humans. This means that it could increase the risk of developing cancer, especially brain tumors.

In this blog post, we will explore:

• What is aspartame and why is it used in Coca Cola?
• What are the health risks of aspartame according to WHO and other agencies?
• What are the alternatives to aspartame and how can you avoid it?

What is Aspartame and Why is it Used in Coca Cola?

Aspartame is a synthetic compound that is about 200 times sweeter than sugar. It was discovered by accident in 1965 by a chemist working for a pharmaceutical company. Since then, it has been widely used as a low-calorie sweetener in various foods and beverages, such as diet sodas, chewing gum, yogurt, cereals, and desserts.

Coca Cola uses aspartame in its Diet Coke, Coke Zero, and other low-calorie products. The company claims that aspartame helps consumers enjoy the taste of Coke without the calories and sugar. According to Coca Cola, one can of Diet Coke contains only 1 calorie and no sugar, compared to 140 calories and 39 grams of sugar in a regular can of Coke.

What are the Health Risks of Aspartame According to WHO and Other Agencies?

The safety of aspartame has been controversial for decades. Since its approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1981, there have been numerous allegations of fraud, corruption, and conflict of interest involving the product’s manufacturers and regulators. Some independent scientists have also raised concerns about the potential neurologic, metabolic, and carcinogenic effects of aspartame.

In July 2023, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a branch of WHO, plans to release the results of a fresh review of safety data on aspartame. According to Reuters, the agency will declare that aspartame is “possibly carcinogenic to humans”. This means that there is limited evidence of a causal association between aspartame exposure and cancer in humans, and sufficient evidence of a causal association in animals.

The IARC’s decision is based on a re-evaluation of previous studies on aspartame and cancer, as well as new data from epidemiological and experimental research. The agency will also consider the mechanisms by which aspartame could cause cancer, such as DNA damage, oxidative stress, hormonal imbalance, and inflammation.

The IARC’s classification of aspartame as a possible carcinogen puts it in the same category as red meat, high-temperature frying, shift work, and diesel engine exhaust. This does not mean that these agents are equally dangerous or that they cause cancer in everyone who is exposed to them. It means that there is some evidence of a link between them and cancer that warrants further investigation and precaution.

The IARC’s assessment of aspartame differs from those of other agencies that have reviewed its safety. For example, the FDA has maintained that aspartame is safe for human consumption at acceptable daily intake levels (ADI) of 50 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has also concluded that aspartame poses no health risk at ADI levels of 40 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day.

However, some critics have argued that these agencies have relied on flawed or biased studies funded by the industry or have ignored or dismissed conflicting evidence from independent sources. They have also pointed out that ADI levels do not account for individual variations in metabolism, genetics, health status, or interactions with other substances.

What are the Alternatives to Aspartame and How Can You Avoid It?

If you are concerned about the health risks of aspartame or want to reduce your exposure to artificial sweeteners in general, there are some steps you can take:

Read the labels

Aspartame is not only found in Coca Cola products but also in many other foods and beverages that are marketed as sugar-free or low-calorie. Check the ingredients list for words like “aspartame”, “NutraSweet”, “Equal”, or “E951”. Avoid products that contain them or choose those that use natural sweeteners instead.

Drink water

Water is the best beverage for your health and hydration. It contains no calories, sugar, or additives. You can also add some lemon, cucumber, mint, or berries to your water for a refreshing and natural flavor.

Try other drinks

If you crave something fizzy or sweet, you can try other drinks that are healthier than diet sodas. For example, you can drink sparkling water, unsweetened tea, coffee, or juice. You can also make your own smoothies, lemonade, or iced tea with fresh fruits and natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia.

Eat whole foods

Aspartame and other artificial sweeteners can interfere with your appetite and metabolism, making you crave more sugar and calories. To avoid this, eat whole foods that are rich in fiber, protein, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. These foods will keep you full and satisfied for longer and provide you with the nutrients you need for optimal health.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.