Pregnancy Research Study
Researchers at the George Washington University want to understand the impacts of consuming non-sugar sweeteners during pregnancy.
Fast Facts
Pregnant Women at 16 Weeks or Less
Regularly Consume Sweetened Beverages Such as Aspartame, Stevia, Diet Soda, Light Lemonade, Diet Iced Tea, and Sports Drinks
Plan to Breastfeed
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Washington, D.C.
Study Background
Researchers at the George Washington University are studying the effects of non-sugar sweetener consumption during pregnancy.
We want to understand how consumption of non-sugar sweeteners – such as those found in sweetened beverages – during pregnancy impacts the mother and baby. Specifically, we want to see how these sweeteners impact the mother’s health and the baby’s development, including body composition and gut health.
Study Background
Researchers at the George Washington University are studying the effects of non-sugar sweetener consumption during pregnancy.
We want to understand how consumption of non-sugar sweeteners – such as those found in sweetened beverages – during pregnancy impacts the mother and baby. Specifically, we want to see how these sweeteners impact the mother’s health and the baby’s development, including body composition and gut health.
Additional Information
Through this research, we hope to learn more about the effects of consuming non-sugar sweeteners during pregnancy on the health of the mother and baby.
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Pregnant women at 16 weeks or less
- Regularly consume sweetened beverages such as aspartame, stevia, diet soda, light lemonade, diet iced tea, and sports drinks
- Consume these beverages 7+ times per week
- Plan to breastfeed
Participants will first attend a virtual screening visit to confirm their eligibility. Then, over the course of the year-long study, they will have monthly virtual consultations with a nutritionist to monitor dietary intake and guide beverage consumption. Participants will also attend four in-person visits, two during pregnancy and two postpartum. At these visits, they will be asked to provide blood, stool, urine, and breast milk samples; after their baby is born, we will measure the baby’s body fat and collect a stool sample from them.
Participants can receive compensation up to $500 for their time and effort upon completing all study activities.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.
