New Study Suggests Link Between Aspartame Consumption and Autism in Sons of Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women
A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UT Health San Antonio) has revealed a potential connection between the consumption of diet soda or other products containing aspartame and higher rates of autism diagnoses in sons of pregnant or breastfeeding women. The study focused on boys who had been diagnosed with autism and found that their mothers were three times more likely to report drinking at least one diet soda per day, or consuming an equivalent amount of five tabletop packets of aspartame.
Lead author Sharon Parten Fowler, PhD, adjunct assistant professor of medicine at UT Health San Antonio, emphasized that the study does not prove causality between aspartame consumption and autism, but it does raise concerns. In an interview with Fox News Digital, Fowler stated, “Our study does not prove causality — it does not prove that maternal intake of diet sodas, and aspartame specifically, during pregnancy or nursing increases a child’s risk of autism — but it does raise a major warning flag.”
The study analyzed reported aspartame consumption among the mothers of 235 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and compared the results to a control group of 121 children with typical neurological development. Male offspring with autism were over three times more likely to have been exposed to aspartame-sweetened products on a daily basis during pregnancy or breastfeeding compared to neurotypical children. The study also found that the severity and onset of autism in boys, as well as maternal use of aspartame-sweetened diet sodas or packets, were associated with higher odds of daily exposure.
While the study had some limitations, including retrospective collection of dietary data and a predominantly male sample, it adds to a growing body of research pointing to potential health risks associated with the consumption of diet beverages during pregnancy. Previous studies have linked diet soda consumption during pregnancy to increased risks of prematurity, overweight or obesity in children.
Fowler recommends that pregnant, nursing, or women considering pregnancy avoid aspartame-containing drinks as a precautionary measure. She advises choosing water as the best drink option and suggests adding natural flavorings like fruit juice, fresh lemon or orange slices, or crushed mint leaves. Dr. Robert Melillo, an autism researcher, supports these findings and encourages pregnant women to avoid aspartame as it may lower the risk of having a child with autism or other developmental disabilities.
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