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| - Last Updated on May 27, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that Diet coke lowers type 2 diabetes, & a better quality of life. We fact checked and found the claim to be False.
The Claim
A thread post by the name Calvin Kang | cooklikeimbook claims that diet coke help lowers type 2 diabetes. A screenshot is attached below:
Fact Check
What is the nutritional information of Diet Coke?
In a 200 ml serving, Diet Coke offers negligible calorie content, zero grams of carbohydrates, no added sugar, and contains 16 mg of sodium.
What are the ingredients in Diet Coke?
Diet Coke contains the following ingredients:
1. Carbonated Water: This is water that has been infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure, creating bubbles.
2. Caramel Colour: This is a food colouring agent that gives Diet Coke its characteristic brown colour. It’s created by controlled heating of carbohydrates.
3. Aspartame: An artificial sweetener that provides the sweetness of sugar without the calories. Aspartame is much sweeter than sugar, so only a small amount is required.
4. Phosphoric Acid: This adds acidity to the drink, providing a tart flavour that balances the sweetness.
5. Potassium Benzoate: This is a preservative that helps prevent the growth of bacteria and mould, extending the shelf life of the beverage.
6. Natural Flavours: These are proprietary blends of flavouring agents that give Diet Coke its unique taste. The exact composition is a trade secret.
7. Citric Acid: This acid provides additional tartness and acts as a preservative.
8. Caffeine: An ingredient that acts as a stimulant, giving Diet Coke its characteristic energy-boosting properties.
9. Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K): Another artificial sweetener used in conjunction with aspartame to enhance the sweetness without adding calories.
These ingredients work together to create the taste and experience of Diet Coke while providing a calorie-free alternative to regular soda.
Are there studies linking Diet Coke consumption to Type 2 diabetes risk?
Numerous studies have investigated the relationship between artificial sweeteners and the risk of developing diabetes.
Aspartame
In 2018 Aspartame, an artificial sweetener, is often recommended for Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) due to its negligible effect on blood glucose levels. However, research suggests it may increase T2D risk by acting as a chemical stressor, raising cortisol levels, inducing oxidative stress, altering gut microbiota, and interfering with the NMDA receptor, all of which can impair insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. Some studies also link aspartame to weight gain and impaired blood glucose tolerance. Despite its widespread use, more research is needed to conclusively determine its safety and efficacy for T2D patients.
Another 2023 study found a significant association between aspartame consumption and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Participants consuming higher levels of aspartame had a 63% higher risk of developing T2D compared to nonconsumers (HR 1.63; 95% CI 1.38-1.93). This association persisted even after adjusting for potential confounders and conducting sensitivity analyses. These findings suggest that aspartame, commonly used as a sugar substitute, may contribute to the development of T2D, challenging its perception as a safe alternative. This research underscores the need for careful consideration of aspartame use, particularly given its widespread presence in the diet.
Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K)
A 2017 study suggests that Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K) disrupts the gut microbiome in a gender-specific manner, leading to different metabolic effects in male and female mice. In males, Ace-K increases bacteria associated with energy harvesting and obesity, resulting in significant weight gain and potential chronic inflammation. In females, it decreases bacteria involved in energy metabolism, preventing weight gain. These disruptions in gut bacteria and metabolism could increase the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes. While the study doesn’t directly confirm this risk, it highlights possible pathways linking Ace-K consumption to metabolic disturbances and chronic diseases.
Dr. Utsav Sahu, Consultant Physician and Diabetologist, warns against the negative effects of soft drinks on individuals with diabetes. He says, “Regular soft drinks, high in sugar and fructose corn syrup, can cause blood sugar spikes, posing risks for diabetics. Diet versions, often perceived as healthier, contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose, which may disrupt blood sugar control and elevate type 2 diabetes risk. Additionally, the phosphoric acid in these drinks can leach calcium from bones, heightening osteoporosis risk.” Dr. Sahu emphasizes the importance of avoiding or moderating soft drink consumption for diabetes management and overall health.
Dr. Nirmala Rajagopalan, a General Physician, cautions against the deceptive nature of “sugar-free” or “zero sugar” labels, which often conceal harmful artificial sweeteners. Instead, she recommends choosing healthier alternatives like homemade lime juice, iced tea, or whole-food smoothies to avoid drinks laden with empty calories that disrupt metabolism.
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