Artificially Sweetened Drinks Linked to Increased Risk of Heart Condition, Study Finds
We all know that sodas, juices, and other beverages can be packed with sugar and calories, which is why many of us opt for diet options. These drinks often advertise minimal or zero calories and sugar, making us believe that we are making a health-conscious choice. However, a recent study has found that artificially sweetened drinks may actually be more harmful to our health than their sugar-sweetened counterparts. In fact, research shows that these drinks can even increase the risk of a serious heart condition.
The study, published in Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology on March 5, examined the association between sugar-sweetened and artificially sweetened beverages and a heart condition called atrial fibrillation (AFib). AFib is characterized by an irregular and rapid heart rhythm, which can lead to blood clots in the heart and increase the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other complications.
To conduct the study, researchers analyzed health data from over 200,000 adults enrolled in the UK Biobank. After following the participants for 10 years, the study authors made a startling discovery. People who consumed two liters or more of artificially sweetened drinks per week were found to be 20 percent more likely to develop AFib compared to those who consumed smaller amounts. However, this does not mean that switching back to sugar-sweetened beverages is the solution. The study also found that those who consumed two liters of sugar-sweetened drinks had a 10 percent increased risk of AFib.
This groundbreaking study is the first to link both no- and low-calorie sweeteners and sugar-sweetened drinks to AFib. Penny M. Kris-Etherton, PhD, RD, FAHA, emeritus professor of nutritional sciences at Penn State University and member of the AHA nutrition committee, emphasized the significance of this finding. She stated, “While there is robust evidence about the adverse effects of sugar-sweetened beverages and cardiovascular disease risk, there is less evidence about adverse health consequences of artificial sweeteners.”
The study also revealed additional health concerns related to the consumption of artificially sweetened and sugar-sweetened beverages. Those who consumed more artificially sweetened drinks were more likely to be female, younger, and have a higher body mass index (BMI). They also had a higher incidence of type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, participants who consumed more sugar-sweetened beverages were more likely to be younger, male, have a lower socioeconomic status, higher BMI, and a higher prevalence of heart disease.
It is important to note that this study is observational and cannot definitively conclude that one beverage poses more health risks than another. However, the association between these drinks and AFib remained even after accounting for participants’ genetic susceptibility to the condition. Therefore, it is advisable to reconsider the amount of sweetened beverages consumed, whether they are made with real or artificial sugar.
Lead study author Ningjian Wang, MD, PhD, from the Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital and Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine in China, cautions against assuming that low-sugar and low-calorie artificially sweetened beverages are healthy. He recommends reducing or even avoiding both artificially sweetened and sugar-sweetened beverages whenever possible.
While more research is needed on this topic, Kris-Etherton suggests that water is the best choice for hydration. However, if you have a craving for a sweet beverage, consider opting for a glass of pure, unsweetened fruit juice. According to the study data, those who consumed one liter or less of these juices weekly had an 8 percent lower risk of AFib.
In conclusion, this study sheds light on the potential risks associated with artificially sweetened drinks. It is crucial to be mindful of the beverages we consume and make informed choices for our health. As more research is conducted, it is always best to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance.
