As a Professor of Nutrition, I appreciate the opportunity to address this rather pressing issue: the World Health Organization’s recent confirmation that aspartame, a commonly used artificial sweetener, has cancer-causing potential.

1. Aspartame’s prevalence in Nigeria is quite extensive. It’s found in a wide variety of processed foods and beverages, including but not limited to diet sodas, sugar-free chewing gum, sugar-free desserts like ice cream and jelly, sugar substitute packets, yogurts, frozen food dinners, and even pharmaceutical drugs like cough syrups and vitamins.

2. The implications of this discovery are potentially far-reaching for Nigerian consumers. They include significant health risks. Frequent consumption of food items containing aspartame could now mean a higher risk of developing cancer. Alongside this, there may be an impact on consumer confidence in food regulation and safety. With aspartame widespread in our food supply, people might start questioning other ingredients and additives, leading to increased uncertainty and even fear.

3. In terms of healthier alternatives, Stevia and Monk fruit extracts are promising. They’re natural, zero-calorie sweeteners that do not raise blood sugar levels. Siraitia grosvenorii, also known as monk fruit, monkfruit or luohan guo, is a herbaceous perennial vine of the gourd family, Cucurbitaceae. It is native to southern China. The plant is cultivated for its fruit extract

However, their taste profile might not be enjoyed by everyone, and cost can be higher than for sucrose or high-fructose corn syrup. Additionally, honey and dates, though containing calories, provide nutrients and antioxidants, lending to a more holistic approach to sweetness in our diet.

As for a possible ban on aspartame, while I understand the sentiment, bans are typically a last resort option. It might be better to first focus on rigorous scientific research, clear labeling, and public education about dietary choices. Keeping consumers informed can have a long-lasting and empowering effect.

4. Moving forward, this situation calls for a multipronged approach.

a. People should be educated about the health implications linked with an over-reliance on processed foods, not just because of aspartame but also due to a plethora of other potentially harmful additives.

b. Food manufacturers and the government need to work together to find viable, healthier alternatives that won’t compromise product taste or affordability.

c. Rigorous checking and updating of regulations should be done to ensure consumer health is prioritized by industry and regulators alike.

In conclusion, the aspartame issue isn’t just a single problem to be solved, but rather a wake-up call, a reminder of the complex relationship we have with food in this modern age. A healthy, balanced, and natural diet remains the best way forward for human nutritional wellbeing.

There also studies linking energy drinks with heart attack etc.

There is indeed scientific research suggesting that consuming energy drinks can impose cardiovascular risks such as heart attacks. The primary reasons behind this association are as follows:

1. High caffeine content: Energy drinks are usually high in caffeine. Caffeine can lead to a significant increase in heart rate, blood pressure, and potentially lead to arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).

2. High sugar content: A lot of energy drinks contain high amounts of sugar which can contribute to weight gain, increase blood pressure, and elevate blood sugar levels. Over time, these changes can lead to diabetes and heart disease.

3. Other stimulants: Besides caffeine, energy drinks often contain other stimulants, like taurine and guarana, which can potentially cause adverse cardiac events.

4. Unknown effects of ingredients combination: Energy drinks often contain a mixture of caffeine, sugars, vitamins, and herbal supplements. The combined effect of these ingredients on the body, particularly the cardiovascular system, is not fully known yet.

5. Alcohol Mixing: Energy drinks are also commonly used as mixers with alcohol. This combination may mask the depressant effects of alcohol, leading individuals to underestimate their level of intoxication, potentially leading to dehydration and its negative effects on the cardiovascular system.

It’s crucial to note that each person’s tolerance and reaction to these stimulants can differ significantly. Some may experience adverse effects with just a small amount, while others might not see any immediate effects. Long-term health consequences of these drinks are still being studied.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new intake of any substance that could potentially impact your health, especially if you have current health conditions like heart problems.

There is also alarming rise in diabetes. Why? What are the solutions?

Yes, globally, there has been an alarming rise in the prevalence of diabetes over the past few decades. The International Diabetes Federation estimates that as of 2019, approximately 463 million adults were living with diabetes worldwide and this number is expected to rise to 700 million by 2045.

Several factors are contributing to this surge:

1. Unhealthy Diets: Consumption of processed foods high in sugars and unhealthy fats has increased substantially. These diets contribute to obesity, which is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes.

2. Physical Inactivity: Sedentary lifestyles, fuelled by changes in work nature, technology, and urbanization, have led to reduced physical activity. Exercise helps control body weight and improve insulin sensitivity.

3. Aging Populations: People are living longer due to advances in healthcare. Since the risk of type 2 diabetes increases with age, a larger elderly population results in more diabetes cases.

4. Genetic Factors: Individuals with a family history of diabetes are more prone to developing the condition, but lifestyle factors usually trigger its onset.

Addressing this rising trend involves various strategies:

1. Prevention: Promote healthier diets and regular physical activities. Governments, communities, and businesses can work together to make fruits, vegetables, and whole grains more accessible and promote urban planning that encouragers walking or cycling.

2. Early Detection: Screen for diabetes in populations at risk. Early detection can lead to earlier intervention and can delay or prevent the onset of diabetes complications.

3. Management: Ensuring that people with diabetes have the necessary resources to manage their condition is key. This includes access to medication, routine check-ups, expert advice, and education about managing diabetes.

4. Policy and Infrastructure: Policies and health infrastructure should support initiatives for preventative health, early detection, and treatment of diabetes. This includes regulation of food and promoting availability of health resources.

5. Research and Development: Continued investment in research is essential to better understand diabetes, develop new treatments, and improve care.

These solutions will require the collective action from individuals, healthcare providers, health agencies, and governments alike.