Category Archives: Life & Style

Life & Style

NEO WTR: Sip Sustainably, Transform Communities, and Protect Our Oceans

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NEO WTR is a brand-new bottled water drink that helps thirsty people drink sustainably on the go while transforming coastal communities worldwide.

NEO WTR, sourced from a pristine British spring in the Mendip Hills, marks a European milestone: it is the first drink to be found in 100% Prevented Ocean Plastic™ drinks packaging meaning that each bottle is made entirely from discarded plastic that has been collected along coastlines at risk of ocean plastic pollution.

With projections indicating that by 2050, that there could be more plastic by weight in the ocean than fish (source: Ellen MacArthur Foundation), urgent action is essential.  We must all contribute to preventing plastic waste from reaching our waters. 

We are incredibly proud that each 500ml bottle of NEO WTR prevents the equivalent of 1.7 plastic bottles from entering the ocean and helps create waves that transform at-risk coastal communities around the world.  We support a programme that invests in building recycling infrastructure, providing locals with fair employment opportunities, fair wages and safeguarded working conditions.  

NEO WTR, with its fully recyclable cap and label, is bottled at source and has an RRP of £1.25 for 500ml.  Our fully recyclable bottles will be stocked in Tesco Superstores nationwide.

www.neowtr.co.uk

@neo_wtr

Flaxseed for PMS Relief: 5 Ways To Say Goodbye to Monthly Discomfort

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The idea of Flaxseed for PMS relief discussed by Registered Women’s Health Nutritional therapist & Nutrigenomics Practitioner, Cara Shaw. Here Cara delves into how we unravel the potential of flaxseed in alleviating discomfort of PMS. 
For many women, the latter half of their monthly menstrual cycle can bring along a host of unwelcome symptoms collectively known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS).Unveiling the Power of Flaxseed: A Natural Approach to Alleviating Monthly Discomfort of PMSPMS is a common disorder that affects almost 50% of women of reproductive age worldwide. It’s characterised by at least one physical, emotional, or behavioural symptom, that manifests in the latter half of the menstrual cycle (the luteal phase) and resolves shortly after the start of menstruation. Symptoms vary widely but include abdominal cramping, acne, breast tenderness, bloating, headaches, mood variability, depression, and anxiety. (1) PMS has many possible underlying causes and contributing factors as to the severity of the symptoms – it will completely depend on the individual. However, it is evident that poor gastrointestinal health, unmanaged stress levels, excessive alcohol, and a diet high in refined sugars can all contribute to PMS severity. Whilst conventional approaches to PMS may offer medication, the natural approach involves making conscious dietary and lifestyle changes.
There is certainly no one-size-fits-all solution, but incorporating flaxseed into your diet may provide a natural and effective way to manage common PMS symptoms. In this blog, we’ll explore the various benefits of flaxseed for PMS, the components that make it a potential solution, its role in hormonal balance, and delicious ways to integrate it into your diet.
Benefits of Flaxseed for PMS Relief.

Source of Essential Fatty Acids
Flaxseed are an excellent source of the essential fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that our bodies simply cannot produce on their own, and therefore, it becomes essential to include in a diet.
Essential fatty acids play a crucial role in cellular health and reducing inflammation in the body. By improving cellular function, protecting cells from oxidative stress (aka damage), and inhibiting inflammatory mediators; they can help to modulate PMS symptoms, particularly those associated with discomfort and pain, such as abdominal cramping. (2)

Digestive & Microbiome support
Flaxseeds are an excellent source of soluble and insoluble fibre which can serve directly and indirectly to support PMS.
Insoluble and soluble fibre in flaxseed can directly support common digestive symptoms of PMS such as constipation and bloating, by adding bulk to stools and increasing bowel motility, thus relieving abdominal pressure.
Flaxseed can indirectly support PMS via the microbiome and its role in hormone detoxification and elimination. Oestrogen goes through a detoxification process in the liver where it becomes ready to be excreted. Once this happens, oestrogen enters the bowels. If gut bacteria are not optimal, enzymes can allow oestrogen to be re-absorbed into the circulation, playing havoc with the balance of sex hormones, and increasing the likelihood of PMS symptoms. Including flaxseed in the diet, can help to alleviate this problem, by re-establishing a healthy balance of bacteria within the gut microbiota, which in turn helps to support healthy oestrogen metabolism.

Positive impact on cravings and appetite
Flaxseed intake has been shown to improve carbohydrate metabolism and lower fasting glucose. During the latter half of a menstrual cycle, blood sugar levels naturally increase, so flaxseed intake can be a nice adjunct to help ease off some of side effects of blood sugar spikes e.g. increased cravings particularly for sweet foods. Additionally, the soluble fibre from the flaxseed helps to keep you fuller for longer, so can help to reduce increased appetite, commonly associated with the week before menstruation. (3)

Natural Hormone Modulator
Flaxseeds are the richest source of lignans, a type of phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogens are a class of plant compounds that have a structure similar to the hormone oestrogen. These plant compounds contain gentle plant oestrogens that may help to restore balance if oestrogen levels are higher relative to progesterone. By gently helping to modulate oestrogen levels in the body, flaxseed may help to restore hormonal imbalances that can contribute to PMS symptoms.

Mood regulation
Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and other emotional symptoms. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to help regulate hormones and neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which can positively impact mood and emotional well-being during the menstrual cycle. Flaxseed consumption is a convenient way of getting in more omega-3 into your diet, especially if you don’t consume oily fish.
Flaxseed’s multifaceted nutritional profile makes it a great natural aid for helping to manage PMS symptoms. The combination of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, lignans, and antioxidants creates a synergistic effect that addresses various aspects of PMS discomfort. Incorporating flaxseed into your diet offers a natural and holistic approach, targeting not only specific PMS symptoms but also overall well-being by supporting inflammation, gut health, and blood sugar balance.

Delicious and practical ways to incorporate flaxseed into your diet
Adding flaxseed into your diet doesn’t need to be complicated. Let’s dive into how you can practically use flaxseed in your everyday routine to support the menstrual cycle. Below are ideas that you can mix and match to suit your needs. Stick to the recommended amount of 2 tbsp per day (so pick one idea below per day) and start gradually if you’re new to high fibre foods.

Breakfast ideas
Flaxseed Smoothie Bowl: Start your day with a nutrient-packed smoothie bowl by blending your favourite fruits, Greek yogurt or kefir, and a generous sprinkle of Linwoods Milled Organic Flaxseed. This not only increases the nutrient profile of the dish, but it also adds lots of fibre to keep your blood sugar stable and your hormones happy.
Flaxseed-Infused Oats: Upgrade your morning oats by stirring in 1-2 tbsp of Linwoods Ground Flaxseed and topping with berries in season. In the luteal phase, one tends to crave more wholesome, carbohydrate-rich options and this one is a perfect option to stop you reaching for the chocolate bars mid-morning by keeping you fuller for longer.

Snack-o-clock
Flaxseed energy balls: Combine oats, medjool dates, nut butter, flaxseed, and almond milk in a high-speed blender, ready to roll into balls to keep in the freezer for a quick snack. This makes a fabulous wholefood snack that will give you the energy you need without the crash at the end.
Yoghurt combo: Add a tablespoon of flaxseed to your favourite yoghurt and serve chilled as an afternoon snack to prevent an energy slump. The protein and fats will help to give you a boost and a good dose of omega 3 to help your mood.


Main meals
Salad dressing: Don’t knock it til you’ve tried it… Flaxseed makes an excellent addition to a salad dressing. Just combine it with extra liquid to keep it thin enough to drizzle on your vegetables. Add them to lemon juice, olive oil, salt, Dijon mustard and a little honey to give your salad some pizzazz and add some diversity to your plate.

Flaxseed-Crusted Salmon: Boost your omega-3 intake by coating salmon fillets with a layer of pesto and a sprinkling of flaxseed, before baking them to perfection. This savoury dish not only adds a flavourful and crunchy twist to a meal, it’s also bursting with omega 3 to support your cycle.
It’s important to note that whilst flaxseed can help to support hormones, they cannot be used as a substitute for poor diet and lifestyle habits. Balancing your plate, eating diverse, colourful and wholefoods, moving your body, practising good sleep hygiene and managing stress levels are the key foundations in supporting hormonal health.

References
Tiranini, L. & Nappi, R.E. (2022). ‘Recent advances in understanding/management of premenstrual dysphoric disorder/premenstrual syndrome’, Faculty Reviews PMCID: PMC9066446 PMID: 35574174
Filho, E.A.R. Lima, J.C. Neto, J.S.P. Montarroyos, U. (2011). ‘Essential fatty acids for premenstrual syndrome and their effect on prolactin and total cholesterol levels: a randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study’, Reproductive Health PMID: 21241460 PMCID: PMC3033240
Nowak, W. & Jeziorek, M. (2023). ‘The Role of Flaxseed in Improving Human Health’, Healthcare (Basel) PMID: 36766971 PMCID: PMC9914786

Tips on Finding Affordable Flights for Your Next International Holiday

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The travel landscape has changed immensely over the past few years. New advancements have disrupted the industry, changing international travel from a luxury only few could afford to a more accessible experience for more people, Accommodation apps like Airbnb can connect travellers to low-cost lodging as an alternative to traditional hotels or motels, allowing people to spend more money on experiences and activities, food and drink, or shopping. Expensive airfares were also a struggle for many travellers and continue to be for some, but now there are several ways people can score good deals on their international flights to avoid breaking the bank.

Don’t let flight costs ruin your travel plans; here are a few tips on finding affordable flights for your next international holiday:

Compare low cost flights

If you don’t have a destination in mind yet, it can help you stay flexible so you can compare international flights for various locations and see where you can score low prices. You can find cheap flights using comparison websites or tools that will show you the different prices. This way, you can avoid paying more and pick the most affordable option. easyJet offers a low-fare finder tool where you can get an overview of flight prices to the destination of your choice or other places so you can find the cheapest dates and times available. Compare prices for locations like Greece, Italy, Spain, and more, which can not only guide you to lower costs but also a potentially new adventure. If you’re more of a spontaneous traveller, you can also find last-minute deals that can help you find the most affordable option, even if you’re booking close to your flight date. 

Avoid the rush

Booking a flight time during the airport’s busiest hours or during peak and holiday seasons can increase flight prices due to the demand, and you’ll be competing with large crowds of fellow holidaymakers. Rather than going with the rush, opt for flight times when demand is lower, such as early morning flights or red-eye flights—flights that depart at night and arrive in the morning. Airports charge lower fees for their take-off spots at these times, which is why they’re cheaper. Avoid buying flights during peak travel seasons as well, as demand also causes more expensive airfares. Booking during the off-season can be cheaper, but you can also fly during the shoulder season, which is between the peak and off-season. You’ll see fewer tourists compared to busier, in-demand dates. Shoulder seasons vary depending on your destination, so doing some research can help you determine when to fly for cheaper prices. 

Evade hidden fees

Even if you book an affordable international flight, hidden fees and surcharges can add to your costs, which can be frustrating and affect your careful budgeting. Airlines can charge you for priority boarding, flight alterations, onboard wi-fi, and even blankets; knowing what to expect can help you plan and budget accordingly to avoid these fees. Baggage fees are some of the more common ways you can get charged extra; if your checked-in bag is overweight, you may be charged per extra kilogram, and the costs depend on the airline. You can avoid such costs by purchasing your extras fees in one go when you buy your ticket so you know what prices you expect to pay. You can also pack smarter by wearing additional layers of clothing, rolling and folding your clothes to maximise space, or packing light in your carry-on bag to avoid checking in your luggage if possible. It also helps to be extra careful about planning your flight so you can avoid changing seats or flight details, which also come at a price.

Finding the perfect flight takes time and a little strategic planning. By following these tips and being flexible, you’ll be well on your way to securing affordable flights and turning your international getaway dream into a reality!

Photo is free to use under unsplash licence by Ross Parmly (@rparmly)

Post written in collaboration with Holly Bates.

Simba Hybrid Mattress Review

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You sleep on a mattress every single night so buying a good one is important. Nothing is more important than sleep. Spending money on a good mattress is money that will never be wasted. It’s good for your body, your day when you are rested, and not being awake at night.

The Simba Hybrid Mattress is a fantastic mattress. Comfortable, cool and just the right amount of soft and firm. It contours to your body like a glove. It arrives in a box and expands in a few hours. Then you are ready to go. It smells a little at first so you might want to open a window. The Simba Hybrid Mattress is a dream to sleep on. I couldn’t recommend it enough. It is fantastic technology for a perfect night’s sleep.

Hybrid® Original Highlights

  • Our original Hybrid mattress. Our first ground-breaking design, over ½ million happy customers so far.
  • More springs, more comfort. Double the Aerocoil® springs of the Hybrid® Essential, for better spinal alignment & pressure relief.
  • Cooler sleep. Open-cell Simbatex® foam provides cooling airflow.
  • 100% edge-to-edge support. SupportCore™ base prevents roll-off at the sides.
  • Breathable cover. Soft, knitted cover with zip-off top for washing or replacing.
  • Made in the UK. With UK sourced materials, in zero-waste factories.
  • 100% recyclable. And designed with 68% less foam.

HIGHER AEROCOIL® SPRING COUNT

Extra springs, extra comfort

  
More contouring   
More cooling action   
Anti-motion transfer 

Made from titanium alloy. For strength in a tiny size.  

The Hybrid® Original features 2,000 of our titanium alloy Aerocoil® springs, the maximum we can fit in a single layer (and a big step up from the Essential). You won’t feel them, but they provide the tailored full body support and soothing pressure relief that’s already helped over half a million happy customers sleep better.  

They work in three, clever ways:  

Contour: each spring compresses individually in response to body weight; they’re also zoned for optimum pressure relief and contoured support  

Cool: they gently push fresh, cooling air through the mattress as they compress  

Control: their conical shape means they compress inwards, limiting transfer of movement.  

The Hybrid® Original also features our unique SupportCore® base, with another 1,000 pocketed barrel springs to ensure 100% edge-to-edge support.

The Simba Hybrid® Mattress

Happy Mammoth Hormone Harmony Review

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Happy Mammoth Hormone Harmony  £54.99 happymammoth.com

I am always wary of supplements even though I tend to be a sucker for them. Sounds like a contradiction? It is, but I won’t put just anything into my body. I had heard of Happy Mammoth and the reviews I have read are brilliant. So I jumped at the chance to review their Hormone Harmony supplement.

I can’t say how impressed I am. I have had three babies and the youngest is two. Losing weight has been hard, especially around my belly. I had an emergency C section and I also have an underachieve thyroid. I exercise as much as I can and try to eat enough protein. I took Happy Mammoth Hormone Harmony for a month and my stomach is flat. It definitely reduced my bloating and fluid retention. While supplements aren’t for everyone this one definitely worked for me. I loved it and I’m considering using it long term. Great stuff.

Contains a blend of plant extracts shown to relieve symptoms of Menopause, decrease symptoms of premenstrual tension, and support reproductive hormones.

  • Reduces bloating and fluid retention in 1 to 3 days
  • Eliminates hot flashes in as little as 4 to 7 days
  • Induces deep, uninterrupted sleep in 5 to 7 days
  • Starts shifting hormonal weight in 15 to 30 days

Three Easy Mocktails from Blake Lively’s Betty Buzz Soft Drinks 

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One of the best things about being an editor is the opportunity to try lots of exciting things. I love Blake Lively’s films and was excited to try her range of drinks, Betty Buzz.
The range is gorgeous. They look great and taste even better. They are fresh and original. Almost like they have been home made. I will definitely try them again in the future. Here are three mocktail ideas from Betty Buzz.

Betty Buzz is made with fresh ingredients, free from artificial preservatives, sweeteners, colours and flavours, resulting in the perfect mixers for easy at home mocktails. 

Betty Buzz Ginger Apple 

1/2 bottle Betty Buzz Ginger Beer | 50ml Cloudy Apple Juice | 15ml Lemon Juice | Cinnamon Syrup | Apple Fan 

Combine ice, apple juice, lemon juice and cinnamon syrup. Shake well and strain into a Collins glass over fresh ice. Pour Betty Buzz Ginger Beer over top. Garnish with an apple fan

Betty Buzz Ginger Beer – Clean, fresh ginger taste with the perfect balance of spice and bubbles. 
RRP:  From £2.50 per 266 ml bottle 
Available from: Whole Foods Market

Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit Spicy Sparkling Faux – Loma

1/2 Bottle Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit | 15ml Lime Juice | 3-4 Jalapeño Slice 

Salt the rim of the glass (if desired). Fill shaker with ice, jalapeños and lime juice. Close and shake generously to combine. Pour into a lowball glass over ice and top with Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit. Garnish with jalapeño slices

Betty Buzz Sparkling Grapefruit – made with 24% real Pink Grapefruit juice this delivers a tangy, lightly sweet and fresh citrus hit. 
RRP: From £1.80 per 150ml can and £2.50 per 266ml bottle and as a multiple pack from Amazon  24 x 150 ml cans from £29.99

Betty Buzz Lemon Lime Flirty Shirley 

1/2 Bottle Betty Buzz Sparkling Lemon Lime | Splash of Grenadine | Cherry 

Add ice to a highball glass and add a splash of Grenadine. Pour Betty Buzz Sparkling Lemon Lime over top. Stir together gently. Garnish with cherryBetty Buzz Sparkling Lemon Lime – Refreshing with deliciously authentic flavours
RRP: From £1.80 per 150ml can and £2.50 per 266 ml bottle and as a multiple pack from Amazon  24 x 150 ml cans from £29.99

Mellow Patch Company Rejuvenating Skincare Duo

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Rejuvenate Skincare Duo

Unveil the Power of Radiance and Rejuvenation.

Imagine a skincare routine that’s more than just a routine. It’s a transformative journey to radiant, youthful skin that defies time. Meet our Rejuvenate Patch and Rejuvenating Facial Serum, the dynamic duo that’s about to rewrite the rules of beauty.

Rejuvenate Patch: The Daily Boost Your Skin Craves

Key Ingredients in the Patch: GHK-CU, Pomegranate Extract, Ginseng, Green Tea Extract, and Blackberry Extract

Our Rejuvenate Patch is your daily amount of skin renewal. Crafted with an array of nature’s finest ingredients, each patch delivers a consistent supply of rejuvenating goodness to your skin. Here’s the magic behind it:

  • GHK-CU: Renowned for its remarkable anti-aging properties, GHK-CU enhances skin firmness, improves texture, and reduces signs of aging.
  • Pomegranate Extract: Bursting with antioxidants, it shields your skin from free radicals and imparts a brighter, more radiant complexion.
  • Ginseng: This natural energiser enhances radiance and vitality, giving you that refreshed look you crave.
  • Green Tea Extract: A potent antioxidant, green tea extract protects your skin from environmental damage while potentially reducing inflammation.
  • Blackberry Extract: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, it nourishes and revitalizes your skin from within.

Daily Ritual: Simply apply one Rejuvenate Patch a day and let it work its magic for 24 hours, ensuring your skin receives a continuous infusion of rejuvenating goodness.

Rejuvenating Facial Serum: The Elixir of Youth

Key Ingredients in the Serum: Hyaluronic Acid, Blue Tansy, Yuzu Oil, Argan Oil, Avocado Oil, and Cannibatol

Our Rejuvenating Facial Serum is your ticket to radiant, youthful skin. A powerhouse of rejuvenating ingredients, it’s your daily invitation to indulge in the ultimate skincare experience:

  • Hyaluronic Acid: The foundation of beautiful skin, it keeps you plump, smooth, and beautifully moisturised.
  • Blue Tansy: Beyond skincare, it calms your senses and eases your mind, contributing to a serene, balanced complexion.
  • Yuzu Oil: Brightening and toning, it adds a refreshing touch to your routine for a radiant, youthful look.
  • Argan Oil: Rich in nourishing nutrients, it offers protection and soothing care with a touch of luxury.
  • Avocado Oil: A multitasker that fights inflammation, acts as an antioxidant, and promotes collagen production.
  • Cannibatol: Our secret ingredient adds a unique touch to the serum’s formulation, contributing to a truly transformative skincare experience.

Day and Night Indulgence: Use the Rejuvenating Facial Serum both morning and night to unlock the ultimate pampering session for your skin.

The Dynamic Duo: Unleash the Magic

Individually, the Rejuvenate Patch and Rejuvenating Facial Serum are extraordinary. But together, they create a synergy that redefines beauty. The patch ensures a continuous supply of active ingredients, while the serum complements by hydrating, nourishing, and soothing your skin. This dynamic duo revitalises your skin from the inside out, leaving you with a radiant, youthful complexion that exudes confidence.

Elevate your skincare game and embrace the beauty of rejuvenation. It’s time to unveil your radiant, youthful skin with our Rejuvenate Patch and Rejuvenating Facial Serum.

Aspartame Concealed in Everyday Products Sparks Transparency Debate

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  • A new investigation reveals product labels fail to disclose actual aspartame percentages, hindering consumers from monitoring intake.
  • The study reveals which products most commonly contain the controversial sweetener, with chewing gum, yoghurt and fizzy drinks all being prone.
  • Certified nutritionist weighs in on why more transparency around aspartame contents is crucial, due to additive’s concerning effects. 

A new study has investigated the true aspartame content in everyday household food and drink items. The findings raise concerns about the lack of transparency surrounding the presence of aspartame in commonly consumed products.

Data analysts at naturally-infused water brand, DASH Water, conducted an analysis of products from one of the UK’s largest supermarkets to investigate the use of the artificial sweetener.

Despite the widespread use of aspartame, the study underscored a significant issue – products do not disclose the percentage of aspartame included. This lack of transparency exacerbates the problem, as consumers are left in the dark about their aspartame intake, making it difficult to monitor and potentially leading to overconsumption. Without knowing the exact content in popular products, consumers face challenges in making informed decisions about their dietary choices.

While the exact percentages of aspartame are unclear, the findings did reveal the products that most commonly contain the additive. It was found that 100% of chewing gum products contain aspartame. In other food categories, 40% of jelly products, 17% of low-fat/fat-free yoghurts, and 9% of mints contain this artificial sweetener. Even immune support vitamins and supplements, crucial for health-conscious consumers, were not immune, with aspartame found in almost 1 in 10 products.

Turning attention to beverages, the results were equally concerning. Almost 3 in 5 sugar-free fizzy drinks, and nearly 1 in 5 sugar-free squash and cordial drinks contained undisclosed amounts of aspartame.

Qualified and clinically trained nutritionist, Lara Buckle, The Wellness Detective, calls for more transparency around aspartame content:

“It is essential to understand the potential effects of aspartame overconsumption on the human body and why moderation is crucial. Aspartame, a low-calorie artificial sweetener, is widely used as a sugar substitute in various diet and low-calorie products. While regulatory agencies like the FDA consider it safe for consumption, concerns persist. Overindulgence in aspartame can lead to adverse outcomes.

Metabolically, aspartame has been linked to disruptions in calorie intake regulation and blood sugar, contributing to insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes. Emerging research also indicates that artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, may affect the composition of gut microbiota, which can have far-reaching consequences on metabolism and overall health. Moreover, individuals sensitive to aspartame can experience adverse reactions such as headaches and migraines. While such sensitivity is not common, it underscores the need for individualised dietary choices and moderation.

Over-reliance on aspartame can alter taste preferences, potentially diminishing the appeal of naturally sweet and nutritious foods. Lastly, it can create a psychological effect where individuals feel they can compensate for reduced calorie intake by making poor food choices elsewhere in their diet.

To maintain a balanced and nutritionally sound eating pattern, it is vital to moderate aspartame consumption and prioritise whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible. While aspartame can be a valuable tool for those managing their sugar and calorie intake, a well-rounded diet remains the cornerstone of good nutrition.”

The absence of detailed information on aspartame content poses challenges for consumers striving to monitor their intake. Our findings underscore the need for greater transparency and disclosure in the food and beverage industry to empower consumers to make informed choices about their dietary preferences. 

Find more information on aspartame.