Splenda was discovered when reasearching new pesticides. No long term study about possible side effects of Splenda in humans has been conducted. Chlorines found in Splenda’s sucralose resemble pesticide molecules and could be hazardous in the long term.
In 1998 sucralose (and not Splenda) got approved by the FDA using studies from Johnson & Johnson: the manufacturer of the sweetener. 10 years later the Duke University, sponsored by the Sugar Association, found that the same sweetener destroys so called ‘good’ intestinal bacteria, contributes to obesity and prevents absorption of prevention drugs (article NY Times). It is clear that each time the research results favor the sponsors of the studies and can’t be considered neutral.
What is Splenda
Splenda is a brand name of an artificial sweetener consisting of dextrose and maltodextrin as bulk components and about 5% of sucralose which provides the main sweetening effect. It was accidentally discovered in 1975, first approved for consumption in Canada in 1991 and in the United States in 1998.
Splenda ingredients:
- dextrose is found in sweet fruits and honey and is about 70% as sweet as normal sugar.
- maltodextrin is a polysaccharide made out of corn or wheat.
- sucralose can be made from sucrose or raffinose found in onions and beans and is about 600 times sweeter than normal sugar.
Splenda markets itself as having zero calories. This is a very misleading marketing strategy made legally by the FDA that states that any food containing less than five calories per single serving. The 1 gram packages of Splenda contain 3, 36 calories.
Splenda dangers
While Splenda promises no calories, no increase in insulin levels and no cravings, this sweetener presents its own unique side effects to the consumer. Research has revealed credible evidence that sucralose found in Splenda can trigger migraines.
Other reactions reported due to consumption of Splenda include skin rushes/flushes, diarrhea, dizziness and cramping, panic like agitation, swelling, headaches, intestinal cramping, muscle aches, bladder problems and stomach pains. These reactions are common in people who are sensitive or allergic to the sucralose molecule found in Splenda.
Studies are yet to reveal the long term side effects of Splenda. However, like other artificial sweeteners, Splenda consumption is believed to be responsible for weight gain, sleep related problems, sexual malfunctions and increased risk of getting cancer . Other studies have also attributed consumption of artificial sweeteners including Splenda to increase cases of lupus, multiple sclerosis and diabetes among other degenerative conditions.
One of the key ingredients of the Splenda danger is the added chlorine, which like most other elements is never harmful to the body as it is quickly flushed out. However, researchers admit that up to 15% of Splenda consumed gets absorbed into the body. The problem with this is that no one can actually ascertain the exact amount of chlorine that is absorbed into the body tissues after consuming the sweetener. Any element that is absorbed into the body in unknown amounts can be a potential health risk. Chances are chlorine that gets absorbed into the body using Splenda, gets accumulated in the tissues and can one day cause health problems to the consumer (see also Dr. Bowen: The Letal Science of Splenda).
Like with every other nutritional element, you need to exercise caution and due diligence before using Splenda. Be sure to consult your doctor and do your research before adding this artificial sweetener to your diet.
In order to fully understand both short and long term harmful side effects of Splenda, it is recommended you keep a diary. Write down your daily food plus sweetener intake, your activities, how healthy you feel that day and unpleasant symptoms if any.
