Is Diet Coke Harmful during Pregnancy?

Posted on April 14, 2008 in Pregnancy Diet

Diet coke and pregnancy: Are you pregnant and confused about the consumption of diet coke during your pregnancy phase?? Consumption of diet coke during pregnancy is one the most doubtful issues. There are no strong evidences to support the fatal effects of diet coke during pregnancy on fetus or mother. Still it is advisable for you to stop drinking diet coke during your entire pregnancy phase to be on a safer side.

Aspartame, sweetener present in the diet coke is the main reason for concern. Research study shows that this ingredient can be harmful for both mother and the developing fetus. Regular consumption of diet coke can lead to fatal or severe side effects. It is better to completely avoid diet coke during pregnancy. But in case you are unable to control the temptation then drink it in moderation.

Why Diet Coke is Harmful during Pregnancy?

Aspartame is the main sweetening agent in diet coke. Commonly this artificial sweetener or aspartame is known as “NutraSweet.” Aspartame is a zero calorie sweetener. Aspartame is not only used as sweetening agent in diet coke but it is also used in different diet foods and sodas. The question arises: How can a zero calorie sweetener be harmful or fatal?

Research study on aspartame shows that when it is stored at 20º C, it becomes poisonous. Basically temperatures equal or above 20º C, aspartame breaks down to a toxic substance known as formaldehyde. And the body temperature of a pregnant woman ranges between 37.8º C to 38º C. Hence at such high temperature excessive aspartame may lead to formaldehyde poisoning.

What are the Effects of Diet Coke on Pregnancy?

As discussed above aspartame converts to poisonous formaldehyde at 20 º C. Hence there are chances that diet coke might show severe effects during pregnancy. Some of the possible side effects of diet coke consumption during pregnancy are listed below:

Headaches

Dizziness

Depression

Fatigue

Numbness

Muscle spasm

Anxiety attack

Seizures

Nausea

Irritability

Breathing difficulties

Loss of hearing

Heart palpitation

Slurred speech

Vision problems

Memory loss

Loss of taste

Brain tumor

Joint pain

Vertigo

Consumption of diet coke during pregnancy might also lead to fatal disease like cancer.

Being pregnant you need to take extra care of your diet. You need to give first preference to your health and of your developing fetus. Hence you need to plan your diet carefully for safe and healthy pregnancy. In case of any doubt or confusion it is better to consult your gynecologist.

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