The consumption of soda, whether regular or diet, has long been a health concern topic. In this thought-provoking article, the question of whether Diet Coke is more harmful than regular soda is examined, revealing surprising insights.
This story dives into the ingredients and composition of Diet Coke, highlighting the absence of sugar and the presence of artificial sweeteners. On top of that, the article sheds light on the well-known health risks associated with regular soda, primarily due to its high sugar content.
What Makes Diet Coke Bad?
SALT LAKE CITY, UT - FEBRUARY 10: Pallets of Diet Coke wait to be shipped out at a Coco-Cola bottling plant on February 10, 2017 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Current Coke president James Quincey will become CEO on May 1.
According to Cleveland Clinic, a registered dietitian pointed out that diet Coke or soda offers our bodies short-term benefits. But in the long term, these no longer work. Susan Campbell, RD, LD, says, "Switching from regular to diet soda may offer a short-term cut in calories, but your body [will not] be fooled for long."
The registered dietitian stresses that our precious bodies have certain reactions to nonnutritive foods, such as artificial sweeteners in diet sodas, that harm our overall health.
Cleveland Clinic also highlights that some studies suggest that our brain reacts to these artificial sweeteners the same way as with actual sugar. And given that, consuming diet soda could still increase our desire for high-calorie foods, which could later on lead to weight gain.
As per a report by USA Today, Diet Coke uses artificial sweeteners, namely Aspartame and Acesulfame K, giving the soda the sweet taste consumers want.
Besides Diet Coke, Healthline notes that other diet colas in the market are Pepsi Max and Sprite Zero. All of these are using artificial sweeteners to replicate the sugary taste.
It is worth noting that last May, the World Health Organization (US) recommended everyone, except diabetes patients, to avoid consuming artificial sweeteners. The Geneva-based United Nations agency warned against the health risks it brings, including potential cardiovascular diseases and the development of Type 2 diabetes.
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Is Diet Coke More Harmful Than Regular Soda?
NEW YORK, NY - OCTOBER 14: Coca-Cola and Diet Coke bottles on display at Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits Trade Day presented by Beverage Media at Pier 94 on October 14, 2016 in New York City.
USA Today reiterates that regular soda includes sugar in astronomical amounts, which - on its own - also comes with its fair share of health risks. Anne Murray, MS, explains that the sugar from high fructose corn syrup leaves people gaining weight.
On the other hand, diet sodas carry some potential health issues, as well, due to their artificial sweeteners. Murray pointed out that it could also irritate our gut. In other words, whether it is a regular or diet soda, both harm our health.
There are a few options if you are looking for a healthier alternative to diet soda. You can try sparkling water. It is carbonated but does not contain any artificial sweeteners. You can also try unsweetened tea or coffee, which are both calorie-free and have health benefits.
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