Artificial sweetener aspartame linked to increased stroke risk, study finds

• A 2025 study in Scientific Reports found that aspartame — used in Diet Coke, sugar-free gum and medications — increases stroke risk by damaging blood vessel function, triggering inflammation and weakening the blood-brain barrier.
• Aspartame disrupts genes regulating blood pressure and inflammation, worsening stroke severity. Even low-dose, long-term consumption (e.g., daily diet soda) may gradually harm cerebrovascular health.
• Approved by the FDA in 1974 amid allegations of data manipulation, aspartame remains legal globally despite links to brain tumors, seizures and a 2023 WHO “possibly carcinogenic” classification.
• Research ties aspartame to Alzheimer’s (via formaldehyde), diabetes (gut bacteria disruption) and a 15 percent higher cancer risk. Women, Black populations and pregnant women face heightened risks.
• Scientists demand updated safety reviews, clearer labeling (aspartame is often hidden as “E951”) and public warnings. Experts advise avoiding processed “diet” products in favor of whole foods.

A groundbreaking study published in Scientific Reports has revealed that aspartame — the artificial sweetener found in Diet Coke, sugar-free gum and even children’s medications — may significantly increase the risk of stroke by triggering inflammation and damaging blood vessel function. The research, released in July 2025, is the first to use advanced computer modeling to demonstrate how aspartame disrupts biological processes linked to stroke severity. These findings add to decades of controversy surrounding the safety of one of the world’s most widely used sugar substitutes.

For years, aspartame has been marketed as a “diet-friendly” alternative to sugar, but mounting evidence suggests it may pose serious risks to brain and heart health. With ischemic strokes — caused by blood clots blocking brain vessels — accounting for 87 percent of all strokes in the U.S., this study raises urgent questions about the long-term consequences of consuming aspartame-laden products. (Related: New study finds that aspartame-sweetened diet soda causes stroke, dementia risks to skyrocket… is aspartame DESTROYING brain function?.)

How aspartame may trigger strokes

The study reveals that aspartame binds to and disrupts five key genes responsible for regulating blood pressure, inflammation and blood vessel integrity. When these genes are impaired, the body faces a cascade of harmful effects, including increased blood pressure — a major stroke risk factor — and chronic inflammation in the brain and blood vessels, which worsens stroke damage. Additionally, aspartame weakens the blood-brain barrier, allowing toxins to infiltrate brain tissue.

Researchers warn that even low-dose, long-term exposure to aspartame — common in daily consumption of diet sodas or sugar-free snacks — could gradually erode cerebrovascular health.

A history of controversy and corporate influence

Aspartame’s approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1974 was mired in allegations of manipulated data and industry pressure. Despite early studies linking it to brain tumors and seizures, it remains legal in over 90 countries under brand names like NutraSweet and Equal.

In 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified aspartame as “possibly carcinogenic,” and a 2024 study found that 63 percent of Americans — including children and pregnant women — consume it regularly. Yet regulatory agencies maintain it is safe within recommended limits (40 mg per kg of body weight daily), a stance critics argue ignores cumulative exposure risks.

Decades of research tie aspartame to other severe health issues. Aspartame is metabolized into formaldehyde, which has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease, according to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease. It also elevates seizure frequency in vulnerable individuals and alters gut bacteria, worsening glucose intolerance — a precursor to diabetes. A 2023 study even associated high aspartame intake with a 15 percent increased cancer risk.

Who is most at risk?

The study highlights disparities: women and Black populations face higher stroke risks from artificial sweeteners. Pregnant women consuming aspartame may also risk preterm birth and childhood obesity, per prior research.

While the FDA insists aspartame is safe, scientists urge further investigation into its metabolites — methanol and phenylalanine — which may synergistically harm blood vessels. Independent researchers are demanding updated safety reviews reflecting modern consumption patterns, clearer labeling (as aspartame hides under names like E951) and public health warnings for high-risk groups.

A wake-up call for consumers

This study underscores a harsh truth: A chemical embraced as a “healthy” sugar alternative may silently endanger millions. As stroke rates climb globally, reassessing aspartame’s role in the diets of many is no longer optional — it’s a public health imperative.

For your health and safety, experts advise opting for whole foods instead of processed “diet” products and scrutinizing labels. In the battle between corporate interests and human health, this research is a stark reminder that not all sweeteners are created equal — some may be deadly.

Watch and learn about whether aspartame is safe and why it remains an ingredient in many food and medicine items.

This video is from the BrightLearn channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

The dangers of aspartame explained.

New study finds that aspartame-sweetened diet soda causes stroke, dementia risks to skyrocket… is aspartame DESTROYING brain function?

Aspartame is a hidden schedule II narcotic.

Why you should avoid aspartame at all costs.

Sources include: 

Childrenshealthdefense.com

usrtk.org

Nature.com

Brighteon.com