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Page added on April 30, 2012

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GAIN WEIGHT WITH DIET SODAS?

I admit, I love Diet Pop! I love the taste. I don’t drink it thinking that I’m saving calories compared to if I were to drink regular pop. I often get a lot of feedback from my family, friends and clients about the dangers of diet pop – more specifically about, “aspartame.” You can say that aspartame is my only “vice”, because I usually eat pretty clean – I don’t drink any alcohol, I don’t smoke, I don’t gamble – I exercise regularly and consider myself pretty responsible and healthy. So, anytime I see an article about aspartame or diet sodas; I read it and try to get a better understanding of the “risks” and “dangers” of diet soda/aspartame.

An article I recently read – stated that certain research has shown diet soda to cause weight gain, as well as all sorts of health issues, including strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems. I’m here to play “Devils Advocate!’

WEIGHT GAIN – the study was conducted over 10 years and followed 474 diet soda drinkers between the ages of 65 and 74. The study showed that those who drank diet soda gained 70% more weight in their waist than those who didn’t drink diet soda. Those who drank two or more diet drinks a day experienced a waist growth that was five times faster than non-diet soda drinkers. Because of the weight gain – the other health issues appeared like, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.

The study found that the ingredient aspartame, an artificial sweetener was the main reason for the weight gain. The sweetener raises blood sugar levels and increases your risk of diabetes. The study “speculates” that the artificial sweeteners trigger your appetite but inhibit the cells in your brain that tell you you’re full. Therefore, your body craves more calories, while your ability to stop and realize what’s happening is diminished.

MY THOUGHTS – O.K. seriously – a study of 65 to 75 year olds? The study did not mention anything about their overall diet or level of physical activity. As we age, our metabolism automatically begins to slow down – so without a proper diet and exercise program; weight gain is inevitable. My brain knows how many calories I need to be eating daily and I know what foods I need to be eating to get those calories – so I don’t think aspartame is going to “trick” my brain into eating more. It’s called meal planning and food prepping.

RISK OF HEART ATTACK AND STROKE – of course gaining any kind of “bad” weight will increase your risk of stroke or heart attack. However, there hasn’t been any scientific proof that diet soda is the cause – as there are so many other missing variables (diet and overall lifestyle). The study actually shows that there was no increase in cardiovascular problems for those who drank regular soda on a daily basis.

MY THOUGHTS – the bottom line is; eat clean, live an active life and everything in moderation. I think if you’re sitting in front of the TV all day, watching shows and playing video games while eating pizza and diet pop – well then, yeah; you’re going to become an aspartame statistic. Too much wine is bad for you but it also has health benefits. Too much chocolate is bad for you, but a certain amount of dark chocolate is actually good for you. So, drink your diet pop in moderation. Live healthy!

Jay Raymundo

GAIN WEIGHT WITH DIET SODAS?

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