Diet Soda Linked to Irregular Heartbeats, Study Finds
In a recent study published in the American Heart Association’s journal Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology, researchers from a Shanghai teaching hospital have discovered a potential link between regular consumption of diet soda and irregular heartbeats. The study suggests that individuals who regularly consume significant amounts of artificially-sweetened soft drinks may be at a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation (a-fib), a condition characterized by irregular heartbeats.
Atrial fibrillation is associated with various symptoms, including heart palpitations, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. The research team, primarily composed of endocrinology researchers from the Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, analyzed a database cohort of over 200,000 patients. Over a period of nearly 10 years, they found that individuals who consumed more than 2 liters of diet beverages with nonsugar sweeteners per week had a 20 percent higher likelihood of developing a-fib compared to those who did not consume any diet soda. Surprisingly, the researchers struggled to explain the exact mechanism behind this correlation.
Switching back to regular soda may not be a perfect solution either. The study also revealed that individuals who consumed more than 2 liters of conventionally sweetened cola per week experienced a 10 percent increase in a-fib symptoms. However, the researchers made an intriguing discovery when examining the portion of the cohort that consumed only pure, unsweetened fruit or vegetable juice. These individuals appeared to have an eight percent lower risk of developing irregular heartbeats compared to their soda-drinking counterparts.
While previous research has explored the negative health effects associated with diet sodas, this study is the first to investigate its potential association with a-fib. Penny Kris-Etherton, a nutritionist from Penn State and contributor to the American Heart Association, emphasized the need for further research on these beverages to confirm the findings and fully understand their impact on heart disease and other health conditions. In the meantime, Kris-Etherton advises limiting or avoiding no- and low-calorie sweetened beverages and opting for water as the best choice.
Although excessive alcohol intake poses a greater risk to heart health than consuming diet soda, the seriousness of the potential link between diet soda and irregular heartbeats should not be underestimated. This study serves as a reminder to prioritize healthier beverage choices, making pure fruit juices all the more appealing. While more research is necessary, it is crucial to consider the potential consequences of consuming diet sodas and take steps towards maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle.
For more information on heart health, explore our article on the link between cannabis use and a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.
