Impact of reducing non-nutritive sweeteners during pregnancy and lactation on health outcomes for mothers and infants
Official title: Effects of a non-nutritive sweetener reduction intervention in pregnancy and lactation on maternal and infant outcomes (the SWEETPEA trial)
Funded at George Washington University · NIH-11019759 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cutting back on artificial sweeteners during pregnancy and breastfeeding might impact the health of moms and their babies, helping to provide better advice for women in this situation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $674,324 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD107427-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11019759 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant or lactating women who consume non-nutritive sweeteners regularly.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not pregnant or lactating, or those who do not consume non-nutritive sweeteners, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how reducing the intake of non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) during pregnancy and lactation affects the health of both mothers and their infants. The study will involve a randomized controlled trial to assess changes in maternal blood sugar levels, infant body composition, and gut microbiome development. By comparing outcomes between those who reduce NNS consumption and those who do not, the research aims to provide clearer guidelines for pregnant and lactating women regarding sweetener intake. Participants will be monitored over time to evaluate both maternal and infant health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health guidelines for pregnant and lactating women, potentially reducing the risk of obesity and metabolic disorders in their children.
How similar studies have gone: While some observational studies have suggested links between NNS consumption and adverse outcomes, this research represents a novel approach by conducting a randomized controlled trial to establish clearer causal relationships.
Where this research is happening
-
George Washington University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sylvetsky, Allison — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Sylvetsky, Allison
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.