November, 2022 | Dr Raghu

If you’re trying to lose weight or control your blood glucose levels, you’re likely looking for ways to cut your intake of refined sugar. Artificial sweeteners, such as saccharin, sucralose, and xylitol, are a popular replacement for refined sugar.

However, there’s always been controversy around the potential harm these sweeteners can cause in the long run. For instance, long-term consumption can make an individual more susceptible to type 2 diabetes and weight gain. That, in turn, can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

A recent study by the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research substantiates that claim. The report, published in The BMJ, found a higher rate of cardiovascular disease events in participants who consumed higher levels of artificial sweeteners.

A Closer Look at the Study

The study involving more than 170,000 French citizens commenced in 2009 with participants aged 18 years and older. The average age of the participants was 42 years, and a majority of them were females.

The researchers regularly collected information about the participants’ dietary habits, including their consumption of artificial sweeteners. Nearly 37% of participants used such sweeteners and consumed 42.46 mg/day on average.

The artificial sweeteners consumed by the participants included the following:

• Aspartame
• Acesulfame potassium
• Sucralose
• Saccharin
• Steviol glycosides (and more)

At the end of the study, the researchers uncovered a direct correlation between the intake of artificial sweeteners and the risk of heart-related ailments. Higher consumers of such sweeteners had a 9% higher incidence of cardiovascular diseases and an 18% higher incidence of cerebrovascular diseases.

While aspartame was associated with an increased risk of strokes, acesulfame potassium and sucralose were linked with a higher risk of coronary heart disease.

What Does That Mean For You?

The recent study of French nationals echoes previous claims about the harmful effects of artificial sweeteners. Long-term consumption of these sweeteners can be detrimental to your cardiac health.

However, that doesn’t mean you should completely steer clear of them. Occasional intake within the permissible limits won’t pose any threat to you. The recommended limit depends on your body weight and the type of sweeteners.

If you’re looking to lose weight, get your blood sugar under control, or embrace healthy eating habits, your best bet is to consult a certified nutritionist. Also, it’s a good idea to consider natural alternatives to refined sugar. These include allulose and stevia. 

Additionally, consider staying away from processed and packaged foods. Many of these items contain artificial sweeteners. Also, they don’t have a high nutritional value and could increase your cholesterol levels.

In Conclusion

Regular consumption of artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose can have an adverse effect on your heart. They increase your risk of coronary heart disease, strokes, and other ailments. 

If you’re looking for ways to minimize your refined sugar intake, consider natural alternatives like stevia. Also, consult a doctor or nutritionist to understand the side effects of different refined sugar replacements.

Dr. C Raghu is an eminent cardiologist with decades of experience. He’s helped countless patients lead healthier lives. If you or anyone you know has been diagnosed with a cardiovascular ailment, feel free to reach out to Dr. Raghu today.

Doctors devise a customized treatment plan when a patient is diagnosed with a cardiac ailment. Typically, treatment for heart diseases includes a combination of medicines, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, surgery.

One of the most commonly prescribed medicines for heart-related ailments is aspirin. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the use of aspirin for heart disease and analyze its pros and cons. Let’s get started.

What Is Aspirin?

Aspirin is one of the most widely used over-the-counter drugs in the world. It comes in several forms, but the most common way to take it is as a pill. It belongs to a specific class of medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Besides being an effective anti-inflammatory medication and pain reliever, aspirin has anticoagulant properties. That means it can help prevent heart disease and stroke when taken regularly over time. 

Aspirin works by preventing blood clots from forming in blood vessels through its effects on platelets, which are cells that help blood clot. There is some controversy about whether or not you should take aspirin to prevent heart disease, given its potential side effects (such as stomach ulcers and bleeding). 

But if your physician recommends it as part of your overall treatment plan, it may be worth considering.

How Aspirin Helps Prevent Heart Attacks, Strokes, and Death

Aspirin’s ability to reduce the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular death stems from its effects on several pathways in the body. The drug helps to prevent blood clots by inhibiting an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX). 

COX is responsible for producing prostaglandins, which cause inflammation and pain. By reducing the production of these substances, aspirin also lowers blood pressure and reduces inflammation in the body.

Additionally, aspirin is an antiplatelet drug that helps prevent blood clotting by preventing platelets from sticking together. That means taking aspirin regularly can help keep your heart healthy by reducing the chances of a stroke or heart attack caused by a blood clot forming inside your arteries or veins.

Aspirin Use for Primary Prevention

Aspirin can be used to minimize the risk of cardiovascular disease in at-risk patients. This is known as primary prevention. According to the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Institute, a low dose (75 to 100 mg/day) of aspirin can help with the primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases among at-risk adults in the age group of 40 to 70 years. However, if you have a bleeding disorder, aspirin may not be the best fit for you.

Aspirin Use for Secondary Prevention

Besides protecting at-risk patients, aspirin can also be given to patients who’ve suffered a heart attack or stroke, received a coronary angioplasty, or undergone a coronary bypass. The anticoagulant properties of aspirin help minimize the risk of cardiovascular events in the future. This is known as secondary prevention.

Risks Associated With Taking Aspirin

The most common side effects of aspirin are related to the stomach and intestines. Prolonged use can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding and stomach ulcers. That, in turn, can cause abdominal cramping, pain, and indigestion.

Should You Take Aspirin to Prevent Heart Disease?

Your doctor is in the best position to decide whether you should take aspirin for your cardiac health. You’ll benefit from taking aspirin if you have a history of heart attacks or strokes. However, you should consult your doctor for the proper dosage and duration of treatment.

Also, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor. Aspirin is classified as Pregnancy Category B by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). That means it is safe for use during pregnancy in animal studies and causes in humans. However, data are limited, so consult with your doctor before taking aspirin while pregnant.

It’s worth noting that aspirin is a blood thinner and can cause bleeding and bruising. You shouldn’t take it with other blood thinners, such as warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, clopidogrel (Plavix), theophylline (Theo-Dur), or dipyridamole (Persantine).

Aspirin you should avoid aspirin if you have the following:

• A bleeding disorder or are taking other medications that increase your risk of bleeding
• Ulcers on your stomach or duodenum

In Conclusion

If you have been diagnosed with heart failure or other cardiac ailments, your doctor may recommend aspirin therapy to help prevent heart attacks and strokes. It’s an anticoagulant that prevents the formation of blood clots. Make sure you talk to your doctor about the potential risks and side effects.

Dr. C Raghu is an accomplished cardiologist who’s been practicing for decades. If you have concerns about taking aspirin for heart disease, feel free to consult Dr. Raghu today.