Bad news for those who love sweets and are thinking of having a family: their favorite calories sweetener can spoil their plans for… baby.

New study at Environmental Health Perspects shows that sucralose – the artificial sweetener we find in Splenda – perhaps negatively affects men’s fertility. Researchers have given male rats high doses of supersalose for two months and found reduced sperm quality, testicular damage and hormonal disorders. In simple words? Splenda may “sink” your swimmers.

Before you panic, note that the research was done on rats and the amount of sucralose they consumed far exceeds the usual intake of humans.

However, with infertility affecting up to 15% of couples in the US – and men responsible for half cases – it is advisable to be careful. Experts have already highlighted a decrease in testosterone levels and sperm numbers in recent decades, mainly due to bad habits such as malnutrition, smoking and lack of exercise.

What can we do? Cut unhealthy habits, take care of your sleep, put the exercise on the program, and re -think how many “sachets” you put in the coffee. Supplements such as zinc, folic acid and coenzyme Q10 may boost your… swimmers.

Conclusion: If you are thinking of becoming a dad, maybe it’s time to look for a more natural sweet treat.