Verywell Health5 Unexpected Risks of Drinking Diet Soda Regularly

Recent studies indicate regular diet soda consumption correlates with several health conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and dental issues, despite containing no calories or added sugar. Although the FDA approves artificial sweeteners used in these beverages, emerging research suggests potential metabolic and cardiovascular implications that warrant clinical consideration.

Key Points:

• Studies demonstrate a 67% increased risk of type 2 diabetes among individuals consuming one or more diet sodas weekly, potentially due to artificial sweeteners altering gut bacteria and affecting insulin sensitivity
• Daily diet soda consumption associates with a 9% increased risk of hypertension per serving, with artificial sweeteners potentially disrupting vascular health through inflammation and oxidative stress
• Consuming more than 2 liters of diet soda weekly correlates with a 20% higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation, though the exact mechanisms require further investigation
• Phosphoric and citric acids in diet sodas contribute to dental enamel erosion, increasing vulnerability to sensitivity and decay despite the absence of sugar
• Research links diet soda consumption exceeding two servings daily with significant kidney function decline, attributed to artificial sweeteners and phosphoric acid content

HCN Medical Memo
Although diet sodas offer a zero-calorie alternative to sugar-sweetened beverages, emerging evidence of metabolic, cardiovascular, and renal implications suggests the need for patient counseling on moderation and healthier alternatives.

Diet & Nutrition Summaries