While statistics indicate a potential connection between diet soda and health hazards, they do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between sweeteners and conditions like stroke or dementia. Experts are quick to remind us of the adage “correlation does not imply causation” and urge caution when interpreting these findings. They pointed out several weaknesses in the studies, including the researchers’ acknowledgment that when accounting for other factors such as diabetes, genetics, and obesity, the link to dementia diminishes. Additionally, they found no correlation between sugary beverage consumption and stroke risk, despite the well-documented association. It is possible that individuals in poorer health, particularly those with diabetes, are more inclined to opt for zero-calorie drinks, which could distort these results.
In the meantime, many specialists recommend that all carbonated beverages, regardless of their sweetening method, should be consumed in moderation. Researchers have long been investigating the health risks associated with soda, with some suggesting a connection to weight gain. In response to the latest study, the American Beverage Association released a statement emphasizing that international bodies, 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 determined them to be safe.
Regardless of whether artificially sweetened beverages pose health risks, consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives, including 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. Nationally, soda sales have been declining as consumers turn away from sugary drinks in favor of healthier options. For instance, a tax imposed on sugary beverages in Berkeley led to a 21% drop in sales last year, while in Philadelphia, PepsiCo announced plans to lay off 80 to 100 workers after a 40% sales decline following the city’s tax.
The latest studies are unlikely to significantly impact soda sales in the short term unless more definitive evidence connecting these beverages to dementia and stroke emerges. However, given the ongoing challenges facing the beverage industry, this news is not welcome. Amidst these discussions, the comparison of dicalcium malate vs calcium citrate has also gained attention, as consumers become more health-conscious and seek out products that align with their wellness goals. The ongoing scrutiny of soda’s health implications may lead to an increased interest in alternatives that offer better nutritional profiles, such as those containing dicalcium malate vs calcium citrate, which consumers may find more appealing.