Sitting Here, Sipping Coffee While Thinking About You!

Part I

It's 8 am and I've been up since 2:45 because this morning belongs to Zachary, my two month old grandson. With these early mornings, I've been trying desperately to find something tangible to stay awake; one of the more popular in the face paced world is Starbucks Double Shots Energy drinks, one of my favorites. I like not only how it tastes but to be quite honest, it gives me that extra boost I need to be more alert at a moments notice and I don't want to miss one single moment of my precious grandson's life due to sleepiness.
But, this morning I was intrigued by what was in this tall drink of energy. The first ingredient on the list, maltodextrin 2000mg; also known as Splenda and many other artificial sweeteners, (a polysaccharides that is used as a food additive. It is produced from starch by partial hydrolysis and is usually found as a creamy-white hygroscopic spray dried powder. Maltodextrin is easily digestible). The side effects ranging from, [unexplained increase in weight, due to increase calories content. Bloating and flatulence,allergic reactions characterized by itching, rash, allergic rhinitis or asthma. See dangers of beetroot juice. Hypoglycemia, caused due to rebound, is also been reported among body builders] to having more in common with DDT, (a synthetic pesticide), than with food. The proponents say, it's derived from food, others say it's poison.

Let's look at what the experts say:

"The Cons
The biggest concern about Splenda is the lack of studies covering the long-term effects of sucralose consumption on humans. Research published in the journal Food and Chemical Toxicology concluded, "Based on the studies and the extensive animal safety database, there is no indication that adverse effects on human health would occur from frequent or long-term exposure to sucralose at the maximum anticipated levels of intake." And while the FDA and Splenda manufacturers rely on these types of studies in approving products, there have been no independent studies conducted on humans. The FDA's recommendation is based solely on studies conducted by the manufacturer.
Things to consider.


Sucralose is chlorinated. Other chlorinated compounds include pesticides.
A study in New Scientist (Nov 23, 1991) determined that the size of thymus glands in rats fed a diet rich in sucralose was reduced by 40%, suggesting that sucralose has the potential to compromise the immune system. There is no ongoing monitoring of the effects of sucralose on humans." (Provida Life Sciences)

   Maltodextrin is only one of the chemicals, (or chemically enhanced), products that make up this energy drink, but to keep us from becoming side tract, we'll stay focused on this one important health concept.


What is your experiences with this sweetener?