A new long-term study has found that high consumption of diet drinks and artificial sweeteners could significantly increase the risk of developing diabetes.
The research, published in Current Developments in Nutrition, analyzed data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study. This study followed 4,654 adults over a 30-year period, starting in 1985 when participants had an average age of 25.
Higher Intake, Higher Risk
Researchers tracked participants’ diets at three points: the start, after seven years, and again at 20 years. Based on these assessments, participants were grouped according to their average intake of diet drinks and saccharin, a common artificial sweetener.
Over the 30 years, 691 participants were diagnosed with diabetes. The results showed that people who drank the most diet sodas had a 129% higher risk of developing diabetes compared to those who drank the least. Those with the highest saccharin intake had a 110% higher risk compared to low consumers.
What It Means for Consumers
These findings raise questions about the health impact of artificial sweeteners, which are often seen as a healthier alternative to sugar. While it is well-known that consuming too much sugar is harmful, the risks of artificial sweeteners are less clear.
The study points to a need for further research on how artificial sweeteners affect glucose metabolism over time. However, because the study was observational, it cannot prove that artificial sweeteners directly cause diabetes. Other ingredients in diet drinks or aspects of the participants’ lifestyles may also have influenced the outcomes.
A Matter of Moderation
The results add to growing concerns about the health effects of sweeteners often found in “sugar-free” products. Despite being marketed as healthier choices, these drinks may not offer the benefits people expect.
Experts agree that moderation is key. For most people, drinking occasional fizzy drinks—whether sugar-free or not—is unlikely to significantly impact overall health. Instead of focusing on one ingredient or label, it’s more helpful to look at your overall diet and lifestyle.
The Takeaway
While this study suggests a link between artificial sweeteners and increased diabetes risk, more research is needed to understand the long-term effects. Until then, consumers should be cautious about viewing diet drinks as a health-conscious alternative. In many cases, enjoying either type of soda in moderation is a more realistic and balanced approach.
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