Sweetener aspartame aggravates atherosclerosis through insulin-triggered inflammation
Overview
Paper Summary
This study, primarily conducted on mice, suggests that aspartame consumption may exacerbate atherosclerosis through an insulin-dependent mechanism involving the CX3CL1-CX3CR1 signaling pathway. The results were partially validated in monkeys, but with inconsistencies in blood glucose responses. Further research is needed to confirm these findings in humans and explore the effects of other artificial sweeteners.
Explain Like I'm Five
Scientists found that fake sugar (like aspartame in diet drinks) might make the tubes that carry blood in your body get sick and clog up faster. It seems to happen because of how your body uses insulin.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
None identified.
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
This is a well-conducted study with interesting findings regarding aspartame's effect on insulin and atherosclerosis. However, the heavy reliance on a mouse model and the lack of investigation into other sweeteners limit its translatability and generalizability, warranting a rating of 3.
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