Grant: Operating Grant: Analyses of Existing Cohorts & Databases - IHDCYH

Childhood obesity rates in Canada have doubled since 1970, with nearly 1 in 3 children now classified as overweight or obese. Over the same period, the consumption of artificial sweeteners has steadily increased among adults, children, and also pregnant women. Some research suggests that regular consumption of artificial sweeteners may paradoxically increase the risk of obesity and metabolic disease, although little is known about the effect of exposure in utero. Recently in the Canadian Healthy Infant Longitudinal Development (CHILD) Study, we found that maternal consumption of artificially sweetened beverages during pregnancy is associated with higher infant body mass index. However, we do not know the biological reason for this association. In this study, we will analyze existing fecal and urine samples from infants in the CHILD cohort to examine their gut microbiome and metabolism. This research will help us understand how artificial sweetener consumption during pregnancy influences infant weight gain. The results will help improve nutrition recommendations for pregnant women and could ultimately contribute to new strategies for childhood obesity prevention.