Is Diet Soda Harmful To A Diabetic?

Sodas with added sugar have gained a bad rap, in part for their contribution to weight gain and Type 2 diabetes. As a result, people who are overweight or who have diabetes may turn to diet soda to manage their conditions. While these beverages may not be linked to a greater risk of diabetes, they have little nutritive value and might exacerbate one complication of diabetes --- osteoporosis.

Evidence on Sweeteners and Diabetes

In a study led by the Harvard School of Public Health that was published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" on March 23, 2011, researchers reported their findings on the effects of diet soda consumption in 40,000 men between 1986 and 2000. They found that men who drank sugar-sweetened beverages, including sodas, once a day were 16 percent more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than men who did not consume sugary drinks. However, there was no greater risk of diabetes from drinking diet soda.

Diabetes and Bone Health

In Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas does not produce any insulin. In Type 2 diabetes, your body produces insufficient insulin or cannot properly use the insulin it produces. Type 1 diabetes is associated with low bone density, which is characteristic of osteoporosis. Researchers believe that insulin may promote bone growth and strength, according to the NIH Osteoporosis and Related Bone Diseases National Resource Center. People with Type 1 diabetes do not typically reach peak bone mass, which predisposes them to osteoporosis later in life. Also, even though people with Type 2 diabetes have greater bone density than those with Type 1 diabetes, those who are obese from lack of physical activity are still at risk for osteoporosis.

Diet Cola, Diabetes and Osteoporosis

While diet colas do not play a role in the onset of diabetes, they may be harmful if you already have diabetes. These types of sodas all contain the flavoring agent phosphoric acid, which makes you more prone to developing osteoporosis. Your body steals calcium from bones in order to neutralize increased acid from drinking diet colas. Also, people who drink sodas excessively may not drink enough beverages rich in bone-building calcium and vitamin D such as milk or fortified juices.

Healthier Beverages

A well-balanced diet is essential for properly managing diabetes as well as for overall health. Instead of consuming nutrient-poor diet sodas, choose beverages such as low-fat milk --- which is rich in bone-building calcium --- green tea and fruit and vegetable juices without added sugar. Consult your doctor for more advice on altering your diet to cope with diabetes and related complications.