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Can Drinking Diet Coke Cause Depression?

May 31, 2011 | By Ryn Gargulinski
Can Drinking Diet Coke Cause Depression?
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Drinking diet Coke does not cause depression per se, but it can serve as a catalyst to exacerbate depression in those already prone to it, according to mental health journalist, John McManamy. The artificial sweetener aspartame, one of the ingredients in diet Coke, is the substance to blame. Mood swings are just one of its many side effects, FitWatch notes.

Aspartame

Aspartame is an artificial sweetener that has no effect on many people who drink diet Coke in moderation, or one or two diet sodas per day. For those who suffer from mood disorders, however, aspartame can have severe effects, McManamy notes. The theory behind the severe reaction is that aspartame interferes with the body's synthesis of serotonin, the brain chemical that affects mood.

Approval

While the Food and Drug Administration approved aspartame use in soft drinks in 1983, McManamy points out that the approval gave aspartame the nod of being safe for consumption by the general population. He later reported that those suffering from mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, may not be considered in the general population equation. The side effects of aspartame are more likely and more severe for those suffering from depression and bipolar disorder than they are for others who have no history of mood disorders.

Side Effects

Aspartame can produce a number of mental and physical side effects, FitWatch reports, with mood swings being one of them. Others include memory loss, fatigue and problems sleeping, along with fatigue, headaches and vision problems. Side effects can also target your digestive system, producing cramps, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Other side effects include hives and rashes, dizziness, convulsions, seizures, a change in heart rate and breathing problems.

Considerations

Several factors can increase the likelihood of depression and, in turn, the likelihood of suffering from aspartame's side effects. MayoClinic.com notes these factors include drug, nicotine or alcohol abuse, undergoing a stressful situation, poverty and having a family history of depression or suicide. Others include having traumatic experiences or a depressed mood as a child, serious health issues or personality traits that include low self-esteem, pessimism, extreme dependency or self-critical behavior. Women are more prone to depression than men, especially following the birth of a child. Certain medications can also induce mood swings and exacerbate depression.

References

Article reviewed by Tina Boyle Last updated on: May 31, 2011

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