Why do individuals with the disease phenylketonuria should not consume the artificial sweetener aspartame?

Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU) should avoid Aspartame because it contains phenylalanine, an amino acid that they cannot metabolize properly. Accumulation of phenylalanine can lead to severe neurological damage and cognitive impairments. Managing their diet to exclude phenylalanine is crucial for individuals with PKU to prevent these harmful effects. Therefore, consumption of aspartame poses a significant health risk for them.