Recent research has suggested that consuming low-calorie drinks and food items may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. This is likely due to the fact that many low-calorie options contain artificial sweeteners, which have been linked to a range of negative health outcomes.
Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose, are commonly used to sweeten low-calorie drinks and foods. While they provide a sweet taste without the added calories of sugar, research has linked their consumption to negative health outcomes, including an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
One possible explanation for this increased risk is that artificial sweeteners may disrupt the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels. This can lead to insulin resistance, a condition in which the body’s cells become less responsive to the effects of insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. Insulin resistance has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Additionally, some research has suggested that artificial sweeteners may also have a negative impact on the gut microbiome, the collection of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. A healthy gut microbiome is important for overall health, and disruptions to this system can have negative consequences.
While more research is needed to fully understand the link between artificial sweeteners and heart disease and stroke, it is clear that these products are not without potential risks. To reduce your risk of these health problems, it is important to focus on a healthy and balanced diet that includes whole foods, rather than relying on low-calorie options that may contain artificial sweeteners.