At least, that’s the word from the authors of two new studies that were presented at a meeting in San Diego for the American Diabetes Association. One study followed over 400 diet soda drinkers for 10 years. They found that their waist sizes increased 70% more than non-consumers and that those who consumed more than two diet sodas per day increased their waist sizes five times more than those who avoided diet drinks entirely.
“They may be free of calories but not of consequences,”
The other study revealed that mice that were fed with food laced with artificial sweeteners had higher blood sugar levels than mice eating normal food. "Artificial sweeteners could have the effect of triggering appetite, but unlike regular sugars, they don't deliver something that will squelch the appetite," said Sharon Fowler, co-author of both studies.
So, what should we be drinking?
“Beverages such as soda, energy drinks, and sports drinks are all loaded with sugar and will contribute directly to weight gain,” said Luka Hocevar, CSCS, CFT, fitness boot camp instructor, personal trainer and owner of Results Boot Camp in Renton. “These studies show that diet drinks are not the answer either. We recommend water or green tea.”
At Results Boot Camp here in Renton, Hocevar says that all prospects, not just clients, receive a complete meal and beverage plan when they first come in for a fitness evaluation. “We do what we can to help the community. We realize that our training programs are not for everyone,” says Hocevar. “But we want to give people something valuable just for taking the time to come in and learn about their health.”
If you would like to learn more about the Results Boot Camp meal plan and receive a free two week membership to their training program, contact Luka Hocevar by email at luka@hocevarperformance.com or by phone at 206-372-9303.
