While the statistics imply a potential connection between diet soda and health risks, they do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between sweeteners and conditions like stroke or dementia. Experts are quick to remind us that “correlation does not imply causation” and urge caution in interpreting these studies. They pointed out several shortcomings, noting that researchers acknowledge the association with dementia vanishes when factors such as diabetes, genetics, and obesity are considered. Furthermore, no link was found between the consumption of sugar-free drinks and stroke risk, despite this being a well-documented relationship. It is plausible that individuals already experiencing health issues, particularly those with diabetes, are more inclined to choose sugar-free options, which may distort these findings.
In the meantime, many experts recommend that all fizzy drinks, regardless of how they are sweetened, should be consumed in moderation. Scientists have extensively studied the health risks associated with soda consumption, with some suggesting a connection to weight gain. In response to the latest study, the American Beverage Association released a statement emphasizing that international organizations such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization, and the European Food Safety Authority have repeatedly assessed the safety of artificial sweeteners and concluded they are safe.
Whether or not artificially sweetened beverages pose health risks, 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. National soda sales have been declining as consumers turn away from sugary drinks in favor of healthier options. For example, a tax on sugary drinks in Berkeley led to a 21% drop in sales last year. In Philadelphia, PepsiCo announced it would need to lay off 80 to 100 workers after experiencing a 40% sales decline following the city’s tax.
While the latest studies are unlikely to significantly impact soda sales in the near term without more conclusive evidence linking these beverages to dementia and stroke, the ongoing challenges facing the beverage industry make this news unwelcome. Additionally, as people consider their health, discussions about calcium supplements like Citracal for osteoporosis are becoming more relevant, as consumers increasingly prioritize their well-being in their beverage choices.