Diet soft drinks seem like a good idea as they are marketed as having no sugar and therefore make people believe they are better for them and will help with weight loss. In fact, they contain many artificial sweeteners which seem to confuse the body’s natural ability to manage calories based on tasting something sweet. People also tend to overeat when drinking diet soft drink.
Diet soft drink is linked to many health troubles.
Depression
Drinking more than four cans a day of soft drink is linked to a 30% higher risk of depression. The risk appeared to be greater for people who drank diet compared to regular soft drink.
Type 2 Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome
A 2009 study published in the journal Diabetes Care found drinking diet soft drink daily is linked to a 36% higher risk of metabolic syndrome and a 67% higher risk of type 2 diabetes compared to non-diet soft drink drinkers.
The artificial sweeteners may tamper with the gut-brain connection.
A Less Protected Brain
Aspartame, a common artificial sweetener in diet products, seems to negatively impact the brain’s antioxidant defense system.
Aspartame is also linked to:
• migraines & headaches
• depression
• anxiety
• short term memory loss
• multiple sclerosis
• fibromyalgia
• hearing loss
• weight gain
• fatigue
• brain tumors
• epilepsy
• chronic fatigue syndrome
• birth defects
• Alzheimer’s disease
• lymphoma
• diabetes
• arthritis (including rheumatoid)
• chemical sensitivities
• ADHD
• Parkinson’s
Final Thoughts: Is Diet Soft Drink Bad for You? (Yes.)
• Diet soft drink is not a healthier alternative to regular versions.
• Diet soft drink does not promote weight loss.
• Diet soft drink is linked to metabolic damage, heart disease, weight gain and other health problems.
• If you’re in the mood for a fizzy drink, consider healthier option: kombucha or mineral water with lemon or lime.
Kasey Boorman
Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition)
Kasey is available for one on one consultations or has a one week Summer Clean-tox Eating program online to kick start your journey to a healthier you!
