Artificial sweeteners in diet drinks linked to higher health risks

It is widely known that consuming drinks high in sugar can lead to serious health problems, such as being overweight, obesity, or diabetes. However, scientists have proven that switching these drinks to those containing artificial sweeteners is not necessarily a better option.

Until now, artificial sweeteners were considered a healthier alternative to sugar, but more and more studies indicate that they may increase the risk of various diseases. These chemical substances can be found almost everywhere—in alcoholic beverages, chewing gums, sweets, puddings, sauces, dressings, ready-made pickled herring, and, of course, carbonated drinks. Their prevalence may surprise many.

Scientists from the United Kingdom believe that artificial sweeteners present in diet drinks may increase the risk of heart and brain diseases. They confirmed this opinion through a series of experiments. In a study involving 400,000 people, they discovered that those who consume these drinks are more at risk of premature death, and the risk of heart disease increases by 40 per cent.

Researchers from the United States confirm that the consumption of drinks with artificial sweeteners can lead to increased appetite, which consequently contributes to being overweight and obese. This, unfortunately, directly translates to our health. Their consumption increases the risk of many diseases, including cancers. Their research published in "Cell Metabolism" showed that the sweet taste triggers the release of a hormone that lowers blood sugar levels, which increases feelings of hunger and leads to additional calorie consumption.

French scientists from the National Institute of Health and Medical Research conducted a study analysing data from over 102,000 adults. They considered various factors, such as gender, body weight, physical activity, height, education, age, and habits such as smoking. They also considered the participants' health status, including diseases such as diabetes and the occurrence of cancers in the family. The results are unequivocal. The researchers concluded that people consuming artificial sweeteners have a higher risk of developing cancer.

It is worth remembering that drinks with artificial sweeteners also contain other harmful substances. These include dyes that affect their appearance and a range of preservatives that negatively affect our health.