In my mid-thirties, I began drinking diet sodas to lose weight. After 2 years of initial use, I began having headaches and dizziness on a daily basis. Over-the-counter medications did not improve my symptoms. Then I began experiencing chronic fatigue, extreme weakness, body pain (flu like), \’head in a fog\’ thinking, back pain, irregular, painful and debilitating menstrual cycles. I also experienced hypoglycemia symptoms, bloating, breathing difficulties, heart palpitations, excessive thirst and hunger, severe itching, nausea, numbness and tingling of extremities, night sweats, tremors and blurred vision. At times I actually felt as if I were being poisoned. On Sept 22, 2004, I had a seizure. After all the doctor visits and medical tests, it was determined that I was very healthy, with the exception of an incidental finding, cerebral aneurysm. My PCP prescribed Zoloft for panic attacks, which did help to relieve my symptoms temporarily. I continued to struggle through each day. I knew I was dying, and was ready to go because I was so miserable. Several weeks ago, I learned that 2 of my neighbors, both female, have been sick with the same symptoms. We had our well water tested, heavy metal screening, looked into the possibility of toxic mold in the homes, until I discovered the toxic effects of Aspartame poisoning. I confirmed with my neighbors and they in fact consumed large amounts of diet soda (NutraSweet) as well. I am now 2 weeks without Aspartame in my diet, and I am beginning to feel much improvement in my health. Most of my symptoms have improved tremendously, or disappeared. Even those around me have noticed a difference in my behavior, focus, and particularly my energy level. I am convinced that I am a victim of Aspartame poisoning.
Thank you for taking my story.