Is it okay to consume artificial sweeteners while breastfeeding?

    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Limited data exist on the consumption of artificial sweeteners while breastfeeding; one study showed that 65% of breast milk samples contained saccharin, sucralose, and acesulfame-potassium, but not aspartame. The implications of these findings are unclear, and although there is speculation about potential effects on an infant's gut microbiota and future health, no human studies support this.

    There are limited data on the consumption of artificial (nonnutritive) sweeteners while lactating. In one study, breast milk samples taken from 20 lactating volunteers (19 of whom consumed 0–2 diet beverages per day, and one who consumed 7 per day) revealed that 65% of milk samples contained saccharin, sucralose, and acesulfame-potassium. Aspartame was not detected.[1]

    The implications of these findings are unknown. There is speculation that they may affect an infant’s gut microbiota and/or adversely affect an infant’s future cardiometabolic health, but there are no studies in humans to support this claim.[2]

    Is it okay to consume artificial sweeteners while breastfeeding? - Examine