Can we recommend nonnutritive sweeteners during pregnancy?

Abstract

Pregnancy is a condition of special concern due to the need to care for both mother and fetus. One of the main recommendations during this time is weight control. Exceeding weight gain recommendations increases the risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, obesity, pre-eclampsia, cesarean delivery, premature birth, neural tube defects, and macrosomia, among others. Thus, weight gain within guidelines decreases the chances of these complications. One recommended way to avoid excess weight gain is to replace sugar for nonnutritive sweeteners (NNS), bearing in mind that the sale of these substances, especially sodas and sweets, have increased worldwide. The aim of this study was to review the literature regarding the possible risks and benefits of perigestational consumption of NNS. NNS are widely consumed to substitute sugar and provide a sweet taste without contributing to energy intake; however there are no long-term studies in humans that confirm their safety. A study of the legal regulations of the use of NNS requires ongoing review, especially when it comes to pregnancy, since the statements of different health departments around the world are conflicting.