It may also be used for the de-caffeination of tea and coffee. It is an agent which is also used as a propellant, de-greaser and paint stripper. The results of a 2017 randomized trial suggest artificial sweeteners may increase BMI, weight, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, although more information is needed to be conclusive. However, many consumers do not know the possible side effects and health risks associated with the ingestion of chemically processed artificial sweeteners. Long-term exposure to methylene chloride can cause headaches, depression, nausea, mental confusion, liver effects, kidney effects, visual disturbances, and cancer in humans. For instance, acesulfame potassium breaks down into acetoacetamide. Acesulfame K contains the carcinogen methylene chloride. Overconsuming the sweetener and/or ingesting large amounts at one time does, however, have the potential to negatively impact your health. Approved by Dr. Robert Cook - At this time, various studies have concluded consuming acesulfame potassium in small amounts is not bad for you, and shouldn't cause any long-lasting harm. Certain studies have shown that it also makes all side effects of acesulfame potassium even more potent. Their side effects far outweigh potential benefits of a low-calorie sweetener, and they are actually linked with weight gain, not weight loss. Acesulfame K: Unknown Dangers and Side Effects. A safety test was conducted by the National Toxicology Program as well. The studies came out with no evidence, which could link Ace-K to cancer, or other adverse health effects. One problem with many artificial sweeteners is how, when, and what they break down into. Another benefit of a sweetener like acesulfame potassium is that you get the taste of the sweet, calorie dense foods, but without having to eat all of the extra calories. One of the substances used for the production of acesulfame potassium is methylene chloride. The problems surrounding acesulfame K are based on the improper testing and lack of long-term studies. However, the full effects of using acesulfame potassium are unknown by everyone. Conveniently, as of this writing, there is little … Let's dig in. The FDA has a list of artificial sweeteners, which are termed high-intensity sweeteners, approved for use as food additives. This was followed by the FDA approving the use of acesulfame potassium and viewing it as safe for human consumption. So you essentially get the sugar taste, but not the sugar calories.