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Is Splenda Safe During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, many women find concern in most things revolving around their health and nutrition. And with so many artificial sweeteners on the market today, a great deal of focus has been concentrated on the foods and drinks containing them, namely those products with the relatively newer ingredients such as sucralose (or Splenda). So, the long and short of it, is there any real validity to these sorts of concerns?

  1. Significance

    • Depending on who you talk to or what you read, that question, among many others, is still kind of up for debate. Not too long ago, as many of you may recall, studies began to link certain artificial sweeteners with cancer. Some of these studies were later dismissed as false, but it definitely puts a question in your mind, which certainly adds weight to any concern. Currently, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) considers sucralose, the generic name for Splenda, safe for anyone to use, and that also includes women who are both pregnant or breastfeeding.

    Considerations

    • What does this actually mean to you? Well, if you are someone who uses sucralose on a daily basis, it is said to be harmless to consume while pregnant. Though anything of an artificial nature should really be used in moderation. When pregnant, most doctors will recommend a healthy diet, filled with nutritious, more natural foods, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, whole grains and so on.

    Effects

    • On some occasions, women who are pregnant will actually experiences some sickness or fatigue when consuming products containing sucralose. If this happens to you, simply eliminate it from your current diet. You will most likely feel a change in your condition within a day or two. After the pregnancy, you may feel the need to use it again, but you do not have to. Again, it is entirely up to you.

    Potential

    • When you do find you are pregnant, it is recommended, obviously, that you see a doctor. At that time, you should discuss with her your diet, including the amount of sucralose you consume on a daily basis, if any. She will be able to advise you on how much is an appropriate amount for your body.

    Identification

    • Again, sucralose (or Splenda) is considered safe by the FDA to be used during pregnancy as it has no effect on the bloodstream. It is often found in baking mixes, frostings, sauces, syrups, beverages such as soda, fruit juice, coffee and tea, candies, dairy desserts and sugar substitutes. If you are trying to avoid any artificial sweetener, make a habit of reading the ingredients on the box.

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