Effect of long-term intake of aspartame on serum biochemical parameters and erythrocyte oxidative stress biomarkers in rats

Aspartame is one of the most widely used artificial sweeteners globally. Data concerning acute toxicity of aspartame is controversial, and knowledge on its chronic effect is limited. The present study evaluates the effect of long-term intake of aspartame on serum biochemical parameters and erythrocyte antioxidant defence system in rats. Male Wistar rats, weighing 150–175 g, were randomly divided into one control group and three experimental groups. The control group received only drinking water, whereas the experimental groups were orally administered with aspartame at the concentrations of 50, 500 and 1000 mg/kg b.wt respectively for 180 days. Results showed that administration of aspartame (1000 mg/kg b.wt) caused a significant increase in the levels of serum total bilirubin ( P