Study: Link found between diet drink consumption during pregnancy and autism

Scientists have revealed a link between the consumption of diet drinks during pregnancy and breastfeeding and an autism diagnosis in male children.

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Study: Link found between diet drink consumption during pregnancy and autism

A new study from the University of Texas Health Science Center has been published in the journal Nutrients.

According to the research, there is a link between the consumption of at least one diet drink or an equivalent amount of beverages containing artificial sweeteners per day during pregnancy and breastfeeding and the occurrence of autism in male children.

CONSUMPTION FREQUENCY EXAMINED

Within the scope of the study, the frequency of diet drink and artificial sweetener consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding was examined for the parents of 235 children with autism spectrum disorder and 131 children without this developmental disorder.

Mothers were asked how often they consumed diet soda and beverages containing artificial sweeteners during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

HIGHER RISK IN MALE CHILDREN

The results of the study showed that male children with autism spectrum disorder were 3 times more likely to have a mother who consumed diet drinks during pregnancy compared to typically developing male children.

It was stated that further research with larger sample groups is needed to establish the connection between "aspartame," used as an artificial sweetener, and autism.

The World Health Organization (WHO) classified aspartame, an artificial sweetener, as "possibly carcinogenic" to humans in June, while stating that its use is safe as long as the daily intake limit is not exceeded.

It was noted that no statistically significant relationship was found regarding female children within the scope of the study.

News Source: 12punto