- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- recipes today articles
- recipes today q&a
- message boards
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
 |
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Expert Q&A
 |  |  |
| By Bridget Swinney, M.S., R.D. General Nutrition Expert Prenatal Nutrition Expert | ||
 |
Is it best to eat regular sugar or switch to a sugar substitute during pregnancy?
Unless you eat a very large amount of sugar (which is a bad idea) or are diabetic, you should eat regular sugar. It only contains 16 calories per teaspoon and may ease your craving for sweets more than a substitute. All low-calorie sweeteners have been approved for use during pregnancy, however, saccharin and acesulfame K both cross the placenta. Common sense dictates to limit artificial sweeteners to two servings a day. It's always good to discuss this with your health care provider also."
Related Expert Q&A
- What's the best way to control diabetes during pregnancy?
- I'm on my 10th week of pregnancy and I would like to know if it's safe for me to eat fruits containing high percentage of acid like pineapples or green mangos.
- Is Pilates a safe form of exercise during pregnancy?
- Can you recommend some healthy snacks?
- Can you recommend a good pregnancy fitness and exercise video?
More Answers by this Expert
- I am 15 weeks pregnant and ate a Greek salad with feta cheese. Should I be concerned?
- Are lemons safe to eat during pregnancy?
- What should I avoid on a salad bar to keep my meal as healthy as possible?
- Is it best to eat regular sugar or switch to a sugar substitute during pregnancy?
- What can I do to stop heartburn?
