Many are under the impression that diet sodas cannot be worse for them than their regular sugar counterparts; however, new studies suggest that diet sodas may pose unexpected problems.
An expansive Melbourne Collaborative Cohort Study (MCCS) has revealed that only one artificially sweetened beverage per day may increase the risk of ischemic stroke and Alzheimer’s dementia by nearly three times.
The MCCS tracked over 2800 adults aged 45 years and older for 10 years. The results indicated that those who consumed diet sodas daily had hazard ratios approaching 3.0 for both stroke and dementia. The researchers accounted for age, sex, flowers, diet, and exercise; however the association remained heavily influenced.
Again, the study did not imply that diet sodas are directly leading to anyone’s stroke or dementia, however they suggest alarmingly strong association of poor health indicators, that deserve further research.
Diet sodas are formulations that replace sugar with various types of artificial sweeteners, which have been shown to have negative consequences for both metabolism as well as gut health. Artificial sweeteners may alter the way the body processes glucose, disrupt gut bacteria (think probiotics, etc.), and potentially influence brain chemistry.
In addition to artificial sweeteners, caffeine, and phosphoric acid, as we may to expect when using artificial sweeteners could also raise blood pressure, and decrease some essential minerals, all of which can be hurtful towards heart and brain function.
Hopefully more light can be shed on this issue, this is not the first warning. In 2017 researchers reported on the Framingham Heart Study, in that study, they found nearly three-fold increased risk of dementia and stroke among those who consumed diet sodas daily.
Although scientists emphasize that these are correlations, they still conclude that water is the best choice when it comes to hydration.
If you are trying to cut consuming diet sodas, there are many alternatives for healthier hydration. Water spritzed with fruit flavors – lemon, cucumber, berries – is a delicious flavored water option, without any sugar or chemicals.
Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes. Herbal teas – chamomile or green tea – have antioxidants and calming effects. Sparkling water with a splash of juice can give you that fizz without a harmful sweetener. These options are refreshing and actually do something good for your body and your long-term brain and heart health.
The evidence continues to grow so it is smart to reconsider daily habits. Even if you are consuming diet sodas, it will take away calories in the short term, but could affect your long-term health. The more and more you consume these drinks, the more you are taking risks by not only the beverages themselves, but your choices for hydration.
Researchers strongly agree that they want more research, but cutting down on artificially sweetened beverages, is a smart choice for your brain and your heart.
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