Is it OK to have aspartame while pregnant?

Is it OK to have aspartame while pregnant?

The FDA and the American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Nutrition consider aspartame to be safe for both the pregnant woman and the developing infant. The dietitians at the BWH Nutrition Consult Service/OB-GYN recommend no more than 1-2 servings/day of aspartame containing foods.

Does aspartame cause birth defects?

A report from the FDA called it “one of the most thoroughly tested and studied food additives that the agency has ever approved.” Of particular note to pregnant women, the FDA claims there is no evidence that even high doses of aspartame can cause birth defects.

What sweeteners are not safe during pregnancy?

“The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved aspartame, acesulfame-K and sucralose for use during pregnancy. Because saccharin crosses the placenta, it’s not recommended during pregnancy,” says Suzanne Merrill-Nach, MD, a San Diego-based OB/GYN.

Does aspartame cross the placenta?

Aspartame does not cross the placental barrier. Aspartame breaks down into two amino acids (aspartic acid and phenylalanine,) and a small amount of methanol. Methanol is also found naturally in many foods such as fruits and vegetables and their juices. Thus, aspartame never reaches the baby or crosses the placenta.

Does aspartame cause autism?

Behavioral disorders Aspartame can cause long-term changes in behavior. Autism Aspartame itself does not trigger autism. Neurodegeneration Aspartame cause mental stress, affects learning skills and memory.

What does aspartame do to a fetus?

These women lack an enzyme that allows them to process the amino acid phenylalanine, an ingredient in aspartame. If they ingest aspartame, they can end up with high levels of phenylalanine in their blood, which can cause birth defects.

Is it OK to drink caffeine free Diet Coke while pregnant?

While there are caffeine-free sodas, it’s also best to limit them, since many are high in calories, which can lead to unnecessary weight gain. Even caffeine-free diet soda isn’t a great choice during pregnancy (see below).

Does diet soda cause birth defects?

Avoid saccharin Scientific studies have shown that large amounts of saccharin consumed by lab animals during pregnancy can cause birth defects in babies. It is best to avoid any food or drink that contains saccharin while pregnant to avoid any risks of birth defects.

Does aspartame affect cortisol levels?

Aspartame acts as a chemical stressor by elevating plasma cortisol levels and causing the production of excess free radicals. High cortisol levels and excess free radicals may increase the brains vulnerability to oxidative stress which may have adverse effects on neurobehavioral health.

Is Coke Zero safe pregnancy?

Yes. The Food Standards Agency recommends that pregnant women shouldn’t take more than 200mg of caffeine a day. A can of Coca‑Cola Classic contains 32mg of caffeine and a can of Diet Coke contains 42mg.

Is aspartame safe to use during pregnancy?

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Aspartame is safe for use during pregnancy and lactation. It is recommended to limit consumption to a moderate level. Aspartame should not be used by anyone with PKU (a rare metabolic disorder), rare liver disease, or by pregnant women who have high levels of phenylalanine in their blood.

Is acesulfame potassium safe to use during pregnancy?

Acesulfame Potassium has been deemed safe to use in moderation during pregnancy by the FDA. Aspartame: (Equal or NutraSweet) Aspartame is not effective in heat nor for long periods in liquid form.

Who should not take aspartame?

Aspartame should not be used by anyone with PKU (a rare metabolic disorder), rare liver disease, or by pregnant women who have high levels of phenylalanine in their blood. Phenylalanine is a component of aspartame, and it may not metabolize correctly in anyone who has these conditions.

Is cyclamate safe to use during pregnancy?

Cyclamate is currently banned for use in the U.S., and there is insufficient data regarding the safety of its use during pregnancy. If you use artificial sweeteners and are pregnant, it is always best to talk with your health care provider regarding which sweetener you use and how much you consume.