I wonder if there is any link to the use of aspartame and the fact that some TMers have more neuropathic pain or other TM symptoms than others.
As a result of reading a letter to Peter Gott MD that was published in our local newspaper about "complex idiopathic neuropathy" and aspartame, I just finished an hour of research on the toxity of aspartame. Oddly, aspartame was the very first subject I researched on the internet years ago. Sadly, I forgot all of the ills aspartame can cause and have consumed it by using sugar free gum and my favorite drink - diet Mountain Dew. I did the original research when I thought I might be suffering from fibromyalgia. I stopped using products with aspartame and over time I felt better and forgot about my research. Why am I telling you this? Because, many of my ill symptoms mimic the symptoms listed in the research and the research said aspartame toxity can mimic the symptoms in MS. My biggest question in my TM aftermath has been why are some of these symptoms (neuropathic pain, joint pain, numbness, irritable bowel syndrome, gasterointestinal problems, 5 lb overnight weight gain, memory loss, confussion, poor concentration, poor coordination, muscle weakness, bowel and bladder issues, blurred vision ((get the picture))) so drastic and dramatic at times. Are all these problems TM related or could I be reacting to the on and off use of products containing aspartame. My neurologist suspected MS because of all of my symptoms and ordered 4 brain MRI's in 3.5 yrs. I chew gum sometimes and limit my Mt Dew to one per day, but might go without one for a day or two. I thought my reactions to Mt Dew were due to the caffeine, however, after this mornings research I wonder if I'm having strong reactions to aspartame. Wow, do you think I've hit on a TM aftermath problem? I'll let you know how I feel after I give up my Mt Dew! (Lord help me!) Patti - Michigan
