Linda G. Hsieh is a practicing registered dietitian with over six years experience in clinical practice. Focusing on prenatal and pediatric nutrition, she has worked as a nutrition educator for over nine years.

Q: Are artificial sweeteners safe to use during pregnancy?

A: The ADA recognizes that the recommendation for use of artificial sweeteners during pregnancy must be based on well-designed and approved clinical studies to ensure a healthy pregnancy and healthy babies. During pregnancy, the ADA says that use of aspartame (i.e., Nutrasweet, Equal) and acesulfame-K (i.e., Sunett) within Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines appear safe for pregnant women when consumed in moderation and within the context of a diet consistent with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

On the other hand, pregnant would should avoid the use of saccharin. According to the ADA, saccharin can cross the placenta and may remain in fetal tissues due to slow fetal clearance. The FDA has currently approved saccharin on an interim basis pending further studies.