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News Topical, Digital Desk : In today's era when fitness and weight loss have become major trends, the market is flooded with drinks labeled "zero sugar," "diet," or "sugar-free." At first glance, these drinks seem like a boon, offering all the sweetness and none of the calorie worries. But are they really good for your health?
What Dr. Tarang Krishna is saying about this is quite different and worrying. Let's delve deeper into the reality of these "zero sugar" drinks.
The game of artificial sweeteners
Zero-sugar drinks replace sugar with artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and sucralose. These ingredients are hundreds of times sweeter than sugar and contain negligible calories.
Although these save calories, they confuse our brain. When we drink something sweet, our body expects calories. When we don't get those calories, our body craves more sugary or high-calorie foods.
Effects on Insulin and Metabolism
Even though these drinks don't contain actual sugar, their sweetness can affect the body's insulin response. Some research suggests that regularly consuming artificial sweeteners may slow down the body's metabolism, increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome in the future .
harm to gut health
Our gut is home to many good bacteria that regulate our health and immune system. The chemicals in "zero sugar" drinks can disrupt the balance of these good bacteria in the gut. When gut health is poor, it directly impacts digestion, mood, and even skin.
Cancer risk
In 2023, the World Health Organization issued a warning that long-term consumption of artificial sugars could increase the risk of cancer .
What are their healthy alternatives?
- Lemon water – without sugar or with a little honey.
- Coconut water – rich in electrolytes and completely natural.
- Herbal tea or black coffee – These contain antioxidants.
- Infused Water – Make water refreshing by adding cucumber, mint or fruit pieces to it.
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