Artificial Sweeteners and Cardiovascular Health: Need for Advocacy In Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Artificial sweeteners are synthetic, non-caloric sweeteners characterised by a strong sweetening flavour without calories. They are mainly found in soft drinks, snack foods, sugar-free candies, and dairy products. Despite the adverse effects of artificial sweeteners on human health, (including cardiovascular health and general ill feeling after eating and cancer), especially when consumed at a relatively high level, there is still wide use of such artificial sweeteners in many processed foods and beverages products in Nigeria. This paper, therefore, proposed strategic intervention at controlling the use and consumption of such sweeteners in Nigeria.

Methods: This is an opinion article derived from the general review of technical reports, policy documents and publications related to effects of artificial sweeteners, especially aspartame, to cardiovascular health and human health in general.

Results: The type and content of any sweetener as may be contained in any food or beverage offered for sale are not always declared, hence there is need to profile the various natural and artificial sweeteners in use by the Nigerian food and beverage industry. The Regulatory Agency, NAFDAC, should ensure regular monitoring of food and beverages for the type and contents of any artificial sweetener in foods and beverages. Advocacy should therefore commence on the adverse effects of high-level consumption of aspartame and any other artificial sweetener as well as natural sweeteners.

Conclusion: Governmental and non-governmental agencies should, as a matter of urgency, take positive actions on the proposed strategic interventions as this will help to minimise the consumption of artificial sweeteners to the barest minimum, thereby promoting improved cardiovascular health in Nigeria.

How to cite this article: Adeyemi I.A, Akinroye K.K, Ademuson E ,Olaleye O.S . Artificial Sweeteners and Cardiovascular Health: Need for Advocacy in Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Health Sciences. 2024;24:46-49.