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Artificial Sweeteners in Diet Sodas Linked to Bloating, Cravings and Possible Cognitive Risks
Creatrip Team
3 months ago
Many people choose low- or no-sugar drinks after meals to cut calories, but experts warn artificial sweeteners in diet sodas and other products may cause abdominal bloating, diarrhea and increased cravings for sweet foods. Common sweeteners include aspartame, erythritol, sucralose, acesulfame potassium, saccharin and sugar alcohols like sorbitol and xylitol. Because some of these (sugar alcohols) are poorly absorbed in the small intestine, they can be fermented by gut bacteria, drawing water into the bowel and causing bloating and loose stools. Sweet taste without calories can also trick the brain into signaling hunger or energy deficit, potentially leading to overeating; sucralose has been linked to stimulation of appetite circuits in studies. While regulatory bodies like the U.S. FDA say moderate consumption below recommended limits is safe (e.g., an average adult would need to drink many cans to reach sucralose limits), longer-term research raises concerns: a Brazilian cohort study followed over 12,000 adults and found faster cognitive decline in higher sweetener consumers, and German researchers reported a small association between frequent soda intake and higher depression diagnosis rates. Experts recommend reducing artificial sweetener intake and replacing post-meal sodas with sparkling water, herbal tea, or warm water; if you want carbonation, unsweetened sparkling water can provide the same refreshing feeling. (Note: include brief explanation for any Korean-specific terms if needed.)
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