NCT06548828 · George Washington University
Effects of a Non-nutritive Sweetener Reduction Intervention in Pregnancy and Lactation on Maternal and Infant Outcomes
What this study is about
The effects of consuming non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) during pregnancy and lactation on infant obesity and cardiometabolic disease risk are not well understood.
View original scientific description
The effects of consuming non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) during pregnancy and lactation on infant obesity and cardiometabolic disease risk are not well understood. In this project, pregnant women who frequently consume NNS will be randomly assigned to an NNS-restriction intervention (NNS restriction during pregnancy and lactation or during lactation only) or a control group (no NNS restriction) to determine whether NNS consumption during pregnancy and/or lactation affects infant body composition, maternal blood sugar during pregnancy, and the infants' gut microbiome and metabolome. The results of this study have the potential to shape recommendations around NNS consumption during pregnancy and lactation, thereby potentially improving maternal and infant metabolic health and reducing the global burden of obesity and cardiometabolic disease.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- ≤ 16 weeks gestation
- Singleton pregnancy
- Report frequent NNS beverage consumption (≥ 7 servings/week)
- 18-45 years of age
- Able to read English at a 5th grade level; and
- Intend to breastfeed for at least the first 6 months of life.
- For infants: The mother must be enrolled and provide assent for the infant to participate.
Exclusion criteria
- Physical or mental concerns preventing study participation;
- Medication (e.g., metformin; GLP-1 agonists) use that may affect body weight, body composition, insulin resistance, or lipid profiles;
- Tobacco or drug use during pregnancy;
- Alcohol consumption (\>1 drink per week) during pregnancy;
- Pre-existing gastrointestinal, inflammatory, or malabsorptive disorders (e.g., - Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, inflammatory bowel disease) that may impact NNS absorption or gut microbiota;
- Known suspected/confirmed genetic fetal abnormalities or suspected or known congenital birth defects.
- History of prior gastric bypass surgery.
Where
- Washington D.C., District of Columbia
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 18, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations