Aspartame (also known as Nutrasweet), after being introduced over 20 years ago has been accompanied by controversy and a cloud of confusion ever since. Since Aspartame was first conceived as a chemical weapon by the department of defense, there would seem to be credible information supporting the potential negative health effects associated with its use. Reported symptoms of excess aspartame may include severe headaches, nausea, vertigo, insomnia, loss of control of limbs, blurred vision, blindness, memory loss, slurred speech, mild to severe depression often reaching suicidal levels, hyperactivity, gastrointestinal disorders, seizures, skin lesions, rashes, anxiety attacks, muscle and joint pain, numbness, mood changes, loss of energy, menstrual cramps out of cycle, hearing loss or ringing in the ears, loss or change of taste, and symptoms similar to those in a heart attack. At least thirty independent doctors and scientists have conducted research on the adverse effects of aspartame or have compiled supporting data against its use. In 1991, the National Institutes of Health listed 167 symptoms and reasons to avoid the use of Aspartame.

This definition is in context to Vegetarian. See more contextual defintions for Aspartame.