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Journalism of Courage
Hooked to sodas colas, even diet ones? Think again! Increased consumption may be linked with increased risk factors for heart disease and diabetes, say the US researchers. Though the study is not very conclusive, but experts in India say in case you can8217;t kick the habit the low calorie ones are still better.
What is the controversy
According to a study, published in medical journal Circulation, it has been found that adults who drink one or more sodas a day had about 50 per cent higher risk of metabolic syndrome8212;a cluster of risk factors. These include excessive fat around the waist, low levels of 8220;good8221; cholesterol, high blood pressure and other symptoms. This was true for both regular and diet sodas said the research from Boston University School of Medicine.
Experts say the part about diet sodas is more intriguing. While the researchers believe that people who drink soda, whether diet or sugar-sweetened, tend to have similar dietary patterns, the study offers no conclusive evidence. Though one possible explanation is that diet soda is sweet. 8220;Maybe drinking something sweet conditions you in such a way that you develop a preference for sweet things,8221; the researchers said.
Experts in India believe it8217;s not very conclusive. 8220;The study offers no proper explanation as to why would diet sodas cause obesity and needs further research,8221; says Ishi Khosla, a Delhi based Nutritionist.
Is there more to diet soda controversy
Aspartame, one of the main ingredients of diet sodas and low calorie sweeteners has always been a matter of debate. It has been the subject of a vigorous public controversy regarding its safety and the circumstances around its approval. A few studies have recommended further investigation into the possible connection between aspartame and diseases such as brain tumour brain lesions and lymphoma. These findings, combined with alleged conflict of interest in the approval process, have engendered vocal activism regarding its possible risks.
What can be the side effects
Though there are no conclusive researches to prove this but aspartame has been linked to ENT effects, peptic ulcers, menstrual effects, skin allergies, high blood pressure, palpitations, abdominal cramps and many other diseases. 8220;There have been many anecdotes but very little scientific evidence. Aspartame is made of two amino acids phenylalanine and aspartic acid which can cause brain damage in a class of people who have a genetic disease called phenylketonuria . In these people it can cause brain damage,8221; adds Khosla. According to her, linking diet sodas to weight gain and metabolic syndrome needs more evidence.
A word of caution
According to Khosla, though diet sodas can be preferred to the regular ones, one should not get addicted. The sodas have chemicals and large amount of caffeine and addiction and other side effects cannot be ruled out.
Don8217;t take it as free food
Go for fruit and vegetable juices and natural substances as far as possible. Drink seven to eight glasses of water everyday.
