Is there an association between artificial sweetener consumption and assisted reproduction outcomes?

Previous studies have suggested an association between high intake of sweetened beverages and a number of adverse health outcomes. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated the association between daily consumption of sweetened soft drinks or coffee and the outcome of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment. Patients (n = 524) were interviewed by a nutritionist before ICSI treatment, using a food frequency questionnaire. Regression analysis showed that consumption of ≥3 servings of regular soft drinks or any amount of diet soft drinks was associated with oocyte dysmorphism, diminished embryo quality on days 2 and 3 of culture, and a mild effect on blastocyst formation, implantation and pregnancy rate. Consumption of artificially sweetened coffee was negatively associated with embryo quality on days 2 and 3. However, consumption of coffee or soft drinks was not associated with the odds of live birth. Even so, patients should be advised about the potential negative effects of sugar and artificial sweeteners before attempting infertility treatment. This study is limited by the use of a non-validated food frequency questionnaire, lack of information on quantity of sweeteners consumed, and lack of data on glucose levels in blood serum or follicular fluid. Further investigation is warranted.