24 Jun 2013
Posted by Dorothy Burroughs 
Pregnancy can be a delicate time for you and your baby. You not only need to keep your health in mind, but also find out what you should eat so your baby gets the essential nutrients. But what you do when the cravings hit? Experiencing them can make you feel restless until you indulge in them. Treating yourself to sweet food regularly can do more harm than good, however. This is especially true when you want to eat sweets often.
Pampering yourself regularly with too much sweets can make you develop diabetes and make your baby overweight. Consult with your doctor and ask about different ways you can control your cravings. This way, you can control your intake and eat alternatives that are more nutritious instead.
Artificial Sweeteners: A Possible Substitute for Your Sweet Cravings
One of the options your doctor may suggest is using sweeteners. There are many types available such as saccharin, sucralose, acesulfame, and aspartame. All are generally safe to use during pregnancy. There are instances when you shouldn’t take aspartame while pregnant, though. You might develop phenylketonuria, a condition that makes your body unable to break phenylalanine, a major component of aspartame. This can cause phenylalanine to build up, which can cause birth defects.
Naturally Sweet Food: A More Fitting Alternative for Cravings
Controlling your cravings and eating fruits in place of chocolates, cakes, and confections are more advisable. Too much dependence on artificial sweeteners can reduce your intake of important nutrients. Although aspartame and pregnancy can go together, it is still better to resort to naturally sweet fruits instead. Take mangoes, apples, bananas, and other berries. Eating them regularly can wean you from sugary food until you crave for healthier options.
The Pregnancy Diet: Finding Out the Types of Food Right for You
Consult your doctor about different types of food you need to eat. You may have special dietary needs. Discuss with your doctor about your options and also visit a dietitian. This way, you’ll get well-rounded advice from different health professionals about low-calorie sweetener products.
You and your baby’s health is a matter you should place importance in. Finding out more information about foods you should avoid is also advisable. Educating yourself is the key so you can make sure you’re eating well and digesting the nutrients you both need.
