Aspartame and Platelets in Type II Diabetic Patients

Abstract

Background: For type II diabetes (T2D) subjects to better regulate carbohydrate consumption and manage blood glucose levels, a non-nutritive sweetener (aspartame) is prescribed as an alternative to natural sugar. Previous studies show that there was a 68% rise in the probability of aspartame consumers developing T2D compared with non-consumers. In diabetes and inflammation, deformed red blood cells (RBCs) and atypical fibrin fibre formation or an altered fibrin structure are especially prevalent. Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate, in subjects with T2D taking aspartame, clot viscoelasticity and platelet structure. Methodology: Blood was drawn from 12 T2D subjects from the diabetic clinic at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital, South Africa. Blood was used to perform a full blood count, thromboelastography (TEG) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: SEM showed increased platelet activation and abnormal TEG parameters in T2D consuming aspartame. Conclusion: A hypercoagulable state can increase the risk of thromboembolic complications and an increased incidence of vascular disease. This knowledge may be used to build awareness among consumers of aspartame.