Is Diet Soda Okay When You Have Diabetes?

The increased prevalence of diabetes remains a major health concern for Americans. Many diabetics are asked to make lifestyle modifications and change dietary habits as part of a diabetes treatment plan. Unfortunately, carbonated beverages typically contain sugars than can raise blood glucose levels; however, while the use of diet soda may have a negative health impact, it does not contain sugars that can raise blood glucose levels in diabetics.

Diabetes

In healthy individuals, insulin is secreted by the pancreas in response to rising blood glucose levels. Insulin signals muscle and tissue cells to uptake glucose for utilization as energy. Unfortunately, pancreatic defects can result in insufficient insulin production. In addition, diabetes may also be a result of decreased sensitivity to insulin by muscle and tissue cells. In either case, glucose accumulates in the bloodstream, where prolonged exposure increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, nerve damage and foot ulcers.

Sugar in Soda

The most common forms of sugar found in regular sodas are sucrose and fructose. Sucrose is also commonly known as table sugar, which is added to enhance the sweet taste of soft drinks. Fructose is added to soft drinks in the form of high fructose corn syrup. Both types of sugars are easily converted by enzymes within the body to glucose that is readily absorbed into the bloodstream. According to the United States Food and Drug Administration, a 12 oz. can of regular soda provides 40 to 50 g of sugar.

Diet Soda

There is an alternative option for diabetics who enjoy drinking carbonated beverages. Diet soda is made with artificial sweeteners and does not contain sugars. According to the Coca-Cola website, its diet soda contains artificial sweeteners, including aspartame, sucralose, saccharin, acesulfame potassium, and rebiana. These sweeteners cannot be converted into glucose by enzymes within the body.

Significance

Although the impact of artificial sweeteners and ingredients in diet soda on overall health has not been precisely determined, they are not converted into glucose and are unlikely to raise blood sugar levels. Diet soda appears to be an appropriate alternative to regular soda for diabetics who want to control blood sugar levels. Patients should speak to a physician with concerns regarding diabetes and the appropriate treatment options.