In a new study, scientists examined whether sweeteners could cause any health risks before and after birth during pregnancy. In addition, the study authors wanted to find out whetherArtificial sweetenersincrease the risk of obesity in unborn children. The results showed that Aspartam and Stevia could even change the bacterial population in the intestine of the fetus.
How sweeteners affect the fetus during pregnancy
The research team found that the body fat percentage of the descendants of laboratory dice tend to be higher if it consumed sweeteners during pregnancy. The rat puppies also showed changes in the microbial communities in the intestine. It was an increase in the propionate and butyrat-producing microbes and a decrease in the species fermenting by lactose. According to the study authors, this could explain the weight gain. Accordingly, the results suggested that the nutrition of the mother can significantly influence the weight of the newborn during pregnancy. Many people use low -calorie sweeteners as a healthier alternative to sugar. However, these can have some unexpected effects during pregnancy. While they are largely non -toxic in adults, earlier studies indicate that prenatal consumption by mothers can influence the risk of overweight and intestinal microbioma in infants.
The study results showed that certain bacteria and their enzymes were connected with how much the offspring increased and how much body fat accumulated. So what do the results mean for expectant mothers? The researchers carried out their investigations with laboratory animals. Therefore, the results are not directly transferable to humans. However, earlier studies on humans have also shown a similar connection between eating sweeteners during pregnancy and a higher body mass index of infants. Further research would therefore provide mothers clearer instructions. Given the resultsthe current studySo it can be worthwhile to do without sweeteners during pregnancy. Following the nutrition guidelines would also be an important measure to prevent any health risks for the baby.
