Diabetes management requires a lot of changes in your lifestyle. This means understanding what to eat and what not to. Proper diet, exercise and healthy eating choices sums up diabetes management. But when making one such choice, what do we do about sodas? is diet soda better than normal soda for diabetes management? Read on.
Diet Soda: What does it have?
Before we answer that, let us understand what a diet soda has. Unlike your regular cola or flavoured soda, a diet soda contains artificial sweeteners such as saccharin and aspartame. Much like the name of some of the diet sodas, they have zero nutritional value.
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Is Diet Soda Safe for Diabetics?
Diet soda, due to lack of sugar, does not lead to a sudden spike in your sugar levels. Because of this property, diet sodas have been approved by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) as well as the US FDA. Does that mean it is safe?
The answer remains confusing. Recent research has suggested that diet sodas have harmful additives that may further stimulate hunger and lead to overeating. Some researchers have even suggested that the people who drink diet soda are 62 per cent more likely to get diabetes. But what about people with diabetes?
Well, logic would suggest that the drink is a safer alternative for diabetics. However, as many have pointed out – excess of everything is bad. And diet sodas are no exception to that rule.
Taken once in a while it may be a safe alternative. However, it is highly recommended to avoid all forms of soda, as far as possible. People who are trying to manage diabetes should instead go for alternatives like unsweetened tea (green or black), masala chai, 100 per cent fruit juices, coffee, fruit infused drinks, lemon water and the good old coconut water.
The key to diabetes management is moderation, timely medication and meals and an active lifestyle. As long as you are constantly monitoring your sugar and being regular with your walk and exercise, a little dalliance is not bad. What’s more, though never recommended, a little bit of sugar that you indulge in is not all that bad. Just remember, more than anything, diabetes is a lifestyle disease and hence managing it means managing your lifestyle.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purpose only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.