Study Warns: Diet Sodas Linked to 60% Increased Risk of Liver Disease
A new study cautions about the potential hazards of diet sodas on liver health. It suggests that daily consumption may elevate the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by 60%. This condition is a leading cause of liver cancer, affecting 38% of the U.S. population.
The study found that alternating between sugary and diet drinks did not decrease the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Instead, it emphasized that both types of beverages can harm the liver. The primary culprit is excessive sugar intake, particularly fructose, which the liver struggles to metabolize. This leads to fat accumulation, increased risk of type 2 diabetes, and potential long-term liver damage, akin to alcohol consumption.
Diet drinks may also affect the liver by altering the gut microbiome, interfering with feelings of fullness, and increasing preference for sweet foods. However, the main negative influence is still linked to high sugar consumption. The sugar content raises blood glucose and insulin levels, promoting fat synthesis and liver stress. Additionally, the combined glucose and fructose in sodas can activate enzymes that may promote liver-related cancer metastasis risks.
The study also found that substituting water for diet or sugary beverages can reduce the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by over 15% for diet drinks and nearly 13% for sugary beverages.
The findings underscore the importance of limiting sugar- and diet beverage consumption to protect liver health. With 38% of the U.S. population affected by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and a link between diet beverages and higher risk of dying from liver disease, opting for water instead of sugary or diet drinks could significantly reduce risks.
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