While the statistics indicate a potential connection between diet soda and health risks, they do not definitively establish a direct relationship between artificial sweeteners and conditions such as stroke or dementia. Experts have been quick to reiterate the principle that “correlation does not imply causation,” urging caution in the interpretation of these studies. They pointed out several shortcomings, noting that researchers themselves acknowledge that when factors such as diabetes, genetics, and obesity are considered, the link with dementia vanishes. Additionally, no correlation was found between sugary drink consumption and stroke risk, despite the well-documented association. It’s possible that individuals in poor health, particularly those with diabetes, may be more inclined to select zero-calorie beverages, thus skewing the results.
In the meantime, many experts recommend that all carbonated drinks, regardless of their sweetening method, should be consumed in moderation. Ongoing research has long explored the health risks associated with soda, with some studies suggesting a connection to weight gain. In light of the recent findings, the American Beverage Association issued a statement emphasizing that international organizations, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the World Health Organization, and the European Food Safety Authority, have repeatedly reviewed the safety of artificial sweeteners and determined that they are safe.
Regardless of whether artificially sweetened beverages pose health risks, consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives, such as naturally sweetened low-calorie drinks and bottled water. In fact, bottled water sales surpassed those of carbonated soft drinks in the U.S. last year, making it the largest beverage category by volume. National soda sales have been declining as consumers shift away from sugary drinks in favor of healthier options. For example, a tax on sugary drinks in Berkeley resulted in a 21% sales reduction, while PepsiCo announced plans to lay off 80 to 100 workers in Philadelphia after a 40% decline in sales due to the city’s tax.
Although recent studies are unlikely to significantly affect soda sales in the near term without more conclusive evidence linking these beverages to dementia and stroke, the challenges facing the beverage industry make this news less than welcome. Meanwhile, consumers looking for healthier alternatives may also consider supplements like Citracal 600 with Vitamin D to support their well-being as they move away from traditional soda consumption.