What sweeteners are safe while breastfeeding?

Understanding Safe Sweeteners While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding mothers often seek to maintain a healthy diet while managing their sweet cravings. The question of which sweeteners are safe during this period is crucial, as it directly impacts both maternal health and infant well-being.
Non-Nutritive Sweeteners: A Closer Look
Non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) such as sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame-potassium are commonly consumed and have been studied for their safety during breastfeeding. Research indicates that all these sweeteners, except for saccharin, are generally considered safe for use during lactation. Sucralose, known by the brand name Splenda, is particularly noted for its widespread acceptance and safety profile.
When these sweeteners are ingested by breastfeeding mothers, they can be detected in breast milk at varying levels. However, the concentrations found are typically low enough to be deemed safe for infants. Health Canada supports the use of artificial sweeteners within established acceptable daily intake (ADI) limits, reinforcing the notion that moderate consumption is safe for nursing mothers.
Natural Sweeteners: A Healthier Alternative
For those who prefer natural options, sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit extract are excellent choices. Stevia, derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant, is recognized as safe by the FDA and does not pose any known risks to breastfeeding infants. Similarly, monk fruit extract is gaining popularity as a natural sweetener that is both safe and effective for those looking to reduce sugar intake.
Caution with Certain Sweeteners
While many sweeteners are considered safe, some experts advise caution. Saccharin, for instance, has been linked to potential health concerns and is generally recommended to be avoided during breastfeeding. Additionally, while erythritol is often viewed as a safe sugar substitute, mothers should consult healthcare providers if they have specific concerns about its effects on breastfeeding.
Conclusion: Moderation is Key
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely enjoy a variety of sweeteners, particularly non-nutritive options like sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame-potassium, as well as natural alternatives like stevia and monk fruit. However, moderation is essential, and mothers should remain informed about their choices. Consulting with healthcare professionals can provide personalized guidance, ensuring both mother and baby remain healthy and happy during this important time.

Are artificial sweeteners safe while breastfeeding?

Nonnutritive sweeteners (NNS), including saccharin, sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame-potassium, are commonly consumed in the general population, and all except for saccharin are considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation.

Can you eat honey while breastfeeding?

Yes, it is ok for a breastfeeding mother to eat honey. Botulism is not transmitted by breast milk. The Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program recommends continuing breast feeding or the feeding of expressed breast milk during the illness and recovery from infant botulism.

What artificial sweeteners should be avoided during pregnancy?

The dietitians at the BWH Nutrition Consult Service/OB-GYN recommend no more than 1-2 servings/day of aspartame containing foods. The use of saccharin is not recommended during pregnancy. It is a weak carcinogen that crosses the placenta. Stevia is a sweetener from a plant native to South America.

Why was stevia banned?

Though stevia was initially banned in the U.S. because some studies suggested it may be linked to cancer, it’s no longer prohibited. In fact, in 2008, stevia was granted GRAS status by the FDA – which stands for “Generally Recognized As Safe.”

Can I avoid sugar while breastfeeding?

“New moms can prevent passing secondhand sugars to their children by eating and drinking less sugars while pregnant or breastfeeding,” Goran said. “Caregivers can shield babies and children from harmful effects of sugars by carefully choosing infant formula, baby foods and snacks without added sugars or sweeteners.”

What can I drink to lose belly fat while breastfeeding?

1) Drink At Least 8 Cups Of Water Every Day
And it’s especially important for breastfeeding moms. Water helps your body naturally shed unwanted pounds because water: Contributes to regular body functions, like circulation, digestion, regulation of body temperature, transportation of nutrients, and milk production.

What medicine ingredients should I avoid while breastfeeding?

Common medicines that are not recommended when you’re breastfeeding include:

• codeine phosphate.
• decongestants that come as tablets, liquids or powders that you swallow.
• some nasal decongestants that come as nose sprays or drops – check with a GP or pharmacist before using them.
• aspirin for pain relief.

What sweetener is safe while breastfeeding?

Nonnutritive sweeteners (NNS), including saccharin, sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame-potassium, are commonly consumed in the general population, and all except for saccharin are considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation.

Can a breastfeeding mom take stevia?

Stevia should be avoided by pregnant and breast-feeding women due to a lack of information about its possible effects on developing babies and infants. Individuals with kidney conditions should also avoid taking stevia because some laboratory animals have suffered kidney damage when they were given high doses.

Why avoid strawberries while breastfeeding?

A quart or more of orange juice or a diet heavy in seasonal fruits such as strawberries, melons or cherries have been associated with diarrhea and colicky symptoms in some infants. Foods containing many preservatives, additives or dyes have been associated with signs of discomfort in some babies.