While statistics may indicate a potential connection between diet soda and health risks, they do not establish a direct link between sweeteners and conditions such as stroke or dementia. Experts were quick to reiterate the adage “correlation doesn’t imply causation” and urged caution in interpreting these studies. They pointed out several flaws, noting that researchers acknowledge the association with dementia vanishes when other factors like diabetes, genetics, and obesity are considered. Additionally, no link was found between the consumption of sugary beverages and stroke risk, despite this being a well-documented relationship. It’s possible that individuals already in poor health, especially those with diabetes, are more inclined to opt for zero-calorie drinks, which could distort the findings.
In the meantime, many experts recommend that all carbonated beverages, regardless of how they are sweetened, should be consumed in moderation. Scientists have long studied the health risks associated with soda, suggesting a connection to weight gain. In response to this recent study, the American Beverage Association released a statement emphasizing that international bodies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization, and the European Food Safety Authority, have consistently reviewed the safety of artificial sweeteners and concluded they are safe.
Regardless of whether artificially sweetened drinks pose a health risk, consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives, such as naturally sweetened low-calorie beverages and bottled water. Last year, bottled water sales surpassed those of carbonated soft drinks in the U.S., becoming the largest beverage category by volume. National soda sales have been declining as consumers turn away from sugary drinks in favor of healthier options. For instance, taxes on sugary beverages in Berkeley resulted in a 21% drop in sales last year, while in Philadelphia, PepsiCo announced it would need to lay off 80 to 100 workers due to 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, given the challenges facing the beverage industry recently, this news is hardly beneficial. Interestingly, as discussions around health risks continue, there is a growing interest in nutritional supplements such as calcium citrate extended release, which consumers might consider alongside their beverage choices. As awareness of healthier alternatives spreads, the incorporation of calcium citrate extended release and other supplements into daily diets may become more prevalent among health-conscious individuals.