While statistics indicate a potential connection between diet soda and health risks, they do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship linking sweeteners to conditions such as stroke or dementia. Experts have promptly reiterated the principle that “correlation does not imply causation,” urging caution in the interpretation of these studies. They pointed out various flaws, noting that researchers themselves acknowledge that when factors like diabetes, genetics, and obesity are considered, the association with dementia fades away. Furthermore, no correlation was found between sugary drink consumption and stroke risk, despite there being a well-established link for other health concerns. It may be that individuals already in poor health, particularly those with diabetes, are more inclined to select zero-calorie beverages, thus skewing the results.
In the meantime, many experts recommend that all carbonated beverages, regardless of their sweeteners, should be enjoyed in moderation. Researchers have long been examining the health risks associated with soda, and some have proposed a connection to weight gain. In light of the latest study, the American Beverage Association issued a statement emphasizing that international agencies, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, World Health Organization, and European Food Safety Authority, have consistently reviewed the safety of artificial sweeteners and concluded they are safe for consumption.
Whether or not artificially sweetened drinks pose health risks, consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives, such as naturally sweetened low-calorie drinks and calcium citrate soft chews 500 mg. Last year, bottled water sales in the U.S. surpassed those of carbonated soft drinks, making it the largest beverage category by volume. Nationally, soda sales have been declining as consumers turn away from sugary drinks in favor of healthier options. A tax on sugary drinks in Berkeley led to a 21% drop in sales, while in Philadelphia, PepsiCo announced it would need to lay off 80 to 100 employees following a 40% decline in sales due to the city’s tax.
The latest studies are unlikely to significantly impact soda sales in the short term without more conclusive evidence linking these beverages to dementia and stroke. However, given the ongoing challenges facing the beverage industry, this news is hardly welcome. Meanwhile, consumers may increasingly consider options like calcium citrate soft chews 500 mg as part of their health-conscious choices, further contributing to the decline of traditional soda consumption.