We have been hearing for years that diet soda is bad for us, yet I know several people who still drink several cans daily. YIKES! I’m hoping this blog post will help them make the switch away from soda today.
According to a study that was published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, daily consumption of diet soda is linked to increased risk of heart attack or stroke. An analysis of data gathered from more than 2,500 participants in New York City looked at the relationship between drinking soda, regular or diet, and cardiovascular disease risk. I will clarify that the research showed that drinking regular or diet soda occasionally found no increase in risk. But, compared to those who drink no diet soda, people who drink them daily were 43 percent more likely to have a heart attack, stroke or other vascular event. The researchers said that the reasons for this association are unclear and that more research is planned.
So I’ve found a substitute for all you die hard (pun intended) diet soda drinkers. Zevia is sweetened with Stevia and has 0 calories and very little carbohydrate, depending on the flavor. Stevia is a natural sweetener that doesn’t have the same effects on the body as other sweeteners. They have a dozen flavor choices, including ginger ale, orange, cola and more. Zevia is about $1.00 + per can, which may be steep for some, but it’s certainly better for your health than diet soda (or regular soda for that matter!). Drink up, but be healthy!
Best of Health,
Kathi
