Originally published December 27, 2016, last updated January 4, 2017

The Truth About Diet Soda

Overconsumption of diet soda in the United States has reached epic proportions causing major health problems — specifically, increased belly fat and obesity. Abdominal fat is a known risk factor in diabetes, cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer.

A 10-year study by the University of Texas shows that people who drink two or more diet sodas per day have 70% more belly fat than those who abstained from the beverage.

So what makes diet soda so bad?

Loaded with artificial sweeteners: Diet sodas create a negative hormonal response in the body, increasing fat-storing hormone production and leaving you craving more sweets and refined carbohydrates. Simply put, the more you drink, the more you crave other unhealthy foods.

Added phosphoric acid: This chemical is used to acidify foods and beverages and provides a tangy taste. However, it’s known to slow down metabolism. While it may make diet soda taste better, it’s adding to your waistline and general health decline.

Can be addictive: As with any other caffeine drink, many people claim to need it to start their day or in maintaining their daily routine. Once you’re on the soda habit, it’s very hard to kick and will likely increase.

“It’s an evil cycle that starts early,” says Telvi Roybal, nutritionist and professional chef in Tucson, Arizona. “Society’s craze to be thin at any cost promotes overconsumption of the soda in young and pre-teen girls, setting them up for future obstacles. They consume the beverage in large quantities in hopes to curb their appetite.”

Bottom line: if you care about your health, diet sodas should only be consumed in extremely limited quantities, if at all. A good rule is to avoid any foods or beverages containing artificial sweeteners and chemicals.