Touted as a healthier alternative to sugar, low-calorie sweeteners are anything but. Studies have linked aspartame, sucralose, saccharin and other artificial sweeteners to health risks including destruction of gut bacteria, decreased red blood cells, increased male infertility and kidney enlargement and calcification. Researchers from the University of Calgary are also warning that low-calorie sweeteners can pose serious risks for pregnant women and their babies.
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When the research team examined the effects of low-dose aspartame and stevia consumption on pregnant women and their babies, they found that babies born to mothers who used low-calorie sweeteners while pregnant exhibited disrupted gut microbiota, as well as increased body fat. The researchers noted the importance of a newborn’s gut bacteria, and concluded that disruption could lead to serious health risks, including various diseases such as obesity.
Dr. Raylene Reimer, part of the research team, explained in a news release, “Low-calorie sweeteners are considered safe to consume during pregnancy and lactation, however evidence is emerging from human studies to suggest they may increase body weight and other cardiovascular risk factors. Even stevia, which is hailed as a natural alternative to aspartame and other low calorie artificial sweeteners, showed a similar impact on increasing offspring obesity risk in early life.”
She added, “A healthy pregnancy, including good nutrition, is important for a healthy baby. Our research will continue to examine what makes an optimal diet and more importantly seek to find ways to correct disruptions to gut microbiota should they occur.”
Whether masquerading under the name Splenda, Equal, Sweet N’ Low, or something different, artificial and low-calorie sweeteners can wreak havoc on your health and they should always be avoided. If you’re looking for a healthier way to add a little sweetness to your coffee or tea, try a small amount of raw honey or Luo Han guo, also known as monk fruit.