When trying to maintain a healthy weight, one approach is to choose artificial sweeteners because they have no calories compared to natural sugars, which are higher in calories. However, this can be a misstep in certain circumstances. People who drink diet soda have been found to weigh more than those who prefer regular soda. Experts aren't entirely sure how this happens.
It could be because artificial sweeteners can alter our taste for less sweet foods, such as fruit, which becomes less palatable. Or it could be due to our body's reaction to digesting the chemicals in artificial sweeteners. Alternatively, someone who chooses diet soda feels satisfied with their diet and thus feels free to consume other high-calorie foods. But whatever the case, there seems to be something about artificial sweeteners that's causing the problem.
Risk Obesity in Children
A study involving more than 3,000 pregnant women found that those who consumed artificially sweetened drinks were more likely to have babies with higher birth weights.
Some people may think chubby babies look cute and adorable, but in fact, it's unhealthy for them. Obesity in babies can also negatively impact their health and well-being later in life, as overweight babies tend to grow into heavier children and later become heavier adults. Babies of mothers who regularly consumed one or more artificially sweetened drinks during pregnancy were twice as likely to be overweight at age 1.
Artificial Sweeteners That Are Dangerous for Pregnant women
Pregnant women, please read the ingredient information on food and beverage packaging. Keep in mind that the following artificial sweeteners are unsafe for consumption during pregnancy because they can cross the placenta and accumulate in fetal tissue.
Artificial Sweeteners That Are Still Safe for Consumption
There are two categories of artificial sweeteners that pregnant women can consume, but should be consumed in moderate amounts: calorie-free and caloric sweeteners. However, mothers should avoid or limit their consumption of caloric sweeteners, especially if they have diabetes mellitus or gestational diabetes.
Types of artificial sweeteners with calories that mothers should limit include:
Meanwhile, non-caloric artificial sweeteners that are considered safe for consumption during pregnancy include:
As a safer measure, avoid packaged foods and drinks as much as possible, as they often contain artificial sweeteners. It's much healthier to make your own unsweetened foods and drinks at home, while also increasing your water intake. You're still allowed to consume soda or artificially sweetened drinks occasionally, as long as your overall diet remains healthy, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and regular exercise. #sumberalodokterdotcom#
