While drinking diet soda may save you some calories, countless studies indicate that it may not be as good for you as you think. The following are some of the top 5 reasons to pass on diet soda:
- In recent news, a new study linked diet soda to an increased risk of having a stroke. The exact reason is not clear, and more research needs to be done to further investigate. Read more about diet soda and stroke risk.
- Sodas in general, whether diet or regular, contain phosphoric acid which depletes our bodies of much needed calcium and may block it's absorption and utilization. Sodas have been strongly linked to soft teeth, weakened bones, and osteoporosis. In addition, when calcium intake is too low, our bodies actually store more fat--so even diet sodas can contribute to weight gain. Learn more about calcium and weight loss.
- While the artificial sweetener aspartame is cleared by the FDA, it may not digest well with everyone. For some, aspartame may cause diarrhea or other uncomfortable side effects. Although many people associate aspartame with an increased risk of cancer due to a study reported on animals, a study reported on the National Cancer Institute's website found no relevant link between aspartame and the increased risk for developing cancer. Learn more about this study.
- Diet soda contains no nutritional value whatsoever. Whatever calories diet soda may contain, are empty calories that provide you with no health benefit at all. Drink water, diet green tea, low-fat milk, or other healthy beverages that will not only quench your thirst, but provide your body with nutrients as well.
- Studies show that even diet soda may increase your risk for obesity and diabetes
Do yourself and your body a favor, and pass on the diet soda. If these reasons weren't enough to convince you why you should skip the soda and reach for something healthier, read more here.
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