While statistics indicate a potential connection between diet soda and health risks, they do not establish a direct causation between sweeteners and conditions like stroke or dementia. Experts have reiterated the adage “correlation isn’t causation,” urging caution when interpreting these studies. They pointed out several shortcomings, such as the researchers’ acknowledgment that when factors like diabetes, genetics, and obesity are considered, the link to dementia vanishes. Additionally, the studies found no correlation between sugary drink consumption and stroke risk, despite this being a well-documented association. It is plausible that individuals already in poor health, particularly those with diabetes, may gravitate towards zero-calorie beverages, which could distort these findings.
In the meantime, many experts advise that all carbonated drinks, regardless of their sweeteners, should be consumed in moderation. Researchers have long explored the health risks associated with soda, with some suggesting a connection to weight gain. In response to this recent study, the American Beverage Association released a statement emphasizing that major international organizations, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, World Health Organization, and European Food Safety Authority, have consistently reviewed the safety of artificial sweeteners and deemed them safe.
Regardless of the health risks linked to artificially sweetened beverages, consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives, including naturally sweetened low-calorie drinks and bottled water. Notably, bottled water sales surpassed those of carbonated soft drinks in the U.S. last year, becoming the largest beverage category by volume. Nationally, soda sales have been declining as consumers turn away from sugary drinks in favor of healthier options. Taxes imposed on sugary beverages in Berkeley resulted in a 21% sales drop last year, while PepsiCo indicated it would have to lay off 80 to 100 workers in Philadelphia after a 40% sales decline following the city’s tax.
The latest studies are unlikely to significantly impact soda sales in the short term without more conclusive evidence linking these drinks to dementia and stroke. However, considering the ongoing challenges faced by the beverage industry, this news is hardly welcome. As consumers look for healthier choices, products like calcium citrate with vitamin D3 are gaining popularity, emphasizing the shift toward wellness-oriented options in the beverage market.