Unknown side effects of drinking diet soda – Times of India
As US President-elect Donald Trump’s picture posing with the Presidential Commemorative Inaugural Diet Coke bottle goes viral, the spotlight is once again shining on his favourite drink. Diet Coke has become a popular choice for weight loss enthusiasts and people with metabolic disorders due to its no-sugar and zero calorie appeal. The drink is far from being ‘healthy’ and the illusion of it being a ‘diet food’ could put those consuming it regularly at risk due to many concerns. Considering Diet Coke contains aspartame, an artificial sweetener classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans, it’s high time people become aware of its potential ill effects.
Here are some unknown side effects of drinking Diet soda that people must consider.
It can mess with your kidneys
Being a fan of diet soda can spell bad news for your kidneys as there is evidence that this sugar-free delight can impact kidney function, if consumed in excess. According to researchers from Nurses’ Health Study, women who did not drink diet soda had a 30% greater reduction in kidney function in 20 years than those who did not have it.
It can cause dehydration
If you are looking at hydrating yourself well and think diet soda can be a useful addition, think again. Diet Coke is high in caffeine, which is a diuretic, which means consuming it in excess amounts can increase urine production, which could lead to dehydration. Add lots of fruits in your diet like watermelon, oranges and vegetables like cucumber, celery and lettuce to stay hydrated.
It can raise heart disease risk
Diet soda may seem like a healthy choice at the first glance considering it has zero calories and no sugar. This may prompt people to indulge in it more often. As per a study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, daily diet soda drinkers were more likely to have had a stroke or heart attack, or to have died from vascular disease. Have it in moderation to safeguard your heart health.
It can weaken your bones
Want stronger bones? You must limit your diet soda consumption. Research suggests excessive Diet Coke consumption may reduce bone mineral density due to phosphoric acid, which can weaken bones over time.
Sleep problems
Can’t sleep or stay asleep? Diet soda may be blamed for your disturbed sleep-wake cycles. Studies show how soft drinks and other sugar-sweetened beverages may reduce sleep duration for both adults and children.
Liver problems
Excessive consumption of diet soda may contribute to liver damage over time. Studies suggest that artificial sweeteners like aspartame can interfere with liver function, potentially leading to fat accumulation in the liver and impaired detoxification processes.
Gut health issues
Drinking too much diet soda can disrupt gut health by altering the gut microbiota. The high caffeine content in Diet Coke may lead to digestive discomfort, bloating, and an imbalance in beneficial gut bacteria, affecting overall digestive health.
