New studies show links between diet soda and a larger waist size
Diet soda may not be a healthier alternative to regular soda. New studies suggest that drinking diet soda may lead to weight gain.
In a recent study, researchers followed 474 diet soda drinkers, aged 65 to 74, for nearly 10 years and found that their waistbands grew 70 percent more than those who steered clear of soda. People who drank two or more diet sodas each day saw their waist sizes increase five times more than people who avoided soda entirely.
“Data from this and other prospective studies suggest that the promotion of diet sodas as healthy alternatives may be ill-advised” Dr. Helen Hazuda, professor of medicine at University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, said in a written statement, reported CBS News. “They may be free of calories, but not of consequences.”
Artificial sweeteners found in diet sodas could help trigger the appetite and lead to weight gain said Sharon Fowler, obesity researcher at UT Health Science Center at San Diego. She also said such sweeteners could inhibit brain cells that make you feel full.
