A new study conducted by a Shanghai teaching hospital has shed light on the potential risks of consuming large quantities of diet soda. The research, which analyzed data from over 200,000 patients, found a troubling link between regular consumption of diet soda and irregular heartbeats.
According to the study, individuals who drank more than 2 liters of diet soda with non-sugar sweeteners per day were more likely to develop atrial fibrillation, a common type of irregular heartbeat. Surprisingly, even those who consumed over 2 liters of conventionally sweetened cola per week showed an increased risk of experiencing a-fib symptoms.
In contrast, the study found that individuals who only drank pure, unsweetened fruit or vegetable juice had a lower risk of irregular heartbeats. This research marks the first of its kind to investigate the relationship between diet soda consumption and a-fib.
Nutritionist Penny Kris-Etherton has weighed in on the findings, advising individuals to limit or avoid no- and low-calorie sweetened beverages and opt for water instead. While excessive alcohol consumption is known to pose a serious risk to heart health, the connection between diet soda and irregular heartbeats should not be disregarded.
This study adds to a growing body of research linking certain lifestyle choices to heart health. Previous studies have also found a correlation between cannabis use and a higher risk of heart attack and stroke. As more research is conducted, it is becoming increasingly clear that our dietary and lifestyle choices can have a significant impact on our heart health.
