When people are trying to lose weight, many switch from regular soda to diet soda. After all, trading close to 150 calories for 0 calories seems like a no brainer. And it’s a relatively easy trade off.
But recent studies show that drinking diet soda can actually make you gain weight. So, is there anything to it? Read on to find out.
The Study
A study published in JAMA online shows that drinks made with sucralose, a zero-calorie sweetener, can stimulate appetite in some people.
The study looked at two groups that experienced a reduction in the hormone that inhibits appetite. One group was given a sucralose sweetened drink and the other was given a sugar-sweetened drink. The group with the sucralose sweetened drink was shown to eat more after consuming it than the group with the sugar sweetened drink.
The Reasoning
So why did people react this way?
Researchers feel it may be due to the drinks with artificial sweeteners causing a “greater brain reward activity”. However, the reaction was only present in females and obese people. Males and people with regular weight were not affected in the same way.
Scientists provide further insight stating that they felt artificial sweeteners may confuse the body into thinking something sweet is coming.
“You are supposed to get sugar after something tastes sweet. Your body has been conditioned to that,” explains Susan Swithers, a behavioral scientist at Purdue University.
“But diet soda may lead to a disconnect. The sugar never arrives, and this may blunt the body’s anticipatory responses and throw off the ability to efficiently metabolize sugar that’s consumed later.”
More Detrimental Effects
Further research shows that when animals that consume artificial sweeteners are given real sugar, their blood sugars rise higher than those who do not consume artificial sweeteners. This causes the body to produce more insulin to absorb the sugar thereby increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Best Drinks for Losing Weight
So, what should a person drink if they are looking to lose weight? Here are some recommendations.
• Water: Water is a great weight loss beverage as it’s zero calories, it offers hydration, and it’s effective in flushing the system.
• Green Tea: The antioxidants in green tea increase fat burning and boost metabolism. It has a low caffeine content that can provide energy during workouts.
• Coffee: If you are looking for the full benefits of caffeine for weight loss, add coffee to your diet.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid which may stimulate weight loss and decrease fat accumulation.
• High Protein Drinks: High protein drinks promote fullness, so you eat less. They also provide energy during workouts.
• Vegetable Juice: Vegetable juice has been shown to decrease carb intake and increase vegetable intake making it an optimal weight loss beverage.
If you are looking to lose weight, switching to diet soda may not be the best solution. Try eliminating it from your routine to see if it reduces your cravings for sugary food. We wish you good luck reaching your weight loss goals.
Author
Marissa Bergen
