In this bonus episode, Phoebe chats with clinical nutritionist Sally O'Neil about the safety concerns surrounding Diet Coke. They address the misconception that it causes cancer and emphasize the importance of moderation. They also discuss the controversy surrounding its taste and whether it can be enjoyed as a sweet option or a substitute for water.
Clinical nutritionist Sally O'Neill reassures listeners that moderate Diet Coke consumption is safe and not linked to significant negative health effects.
Claims by the World Health Organization that artificially sweetened beverages hinder weight loss are disputed, with many scientists disagreeing with the associations drawn between these drinks and weight gain.
Deep dives
Diet Coke and Health: Breaking Down the Controversy
Despite the negative portrayal of Diet Coke in the media, clinical nutritionist Sally O'Neill reassures listeners that it is okay to enjoy this popular beverage guilt-free. O'Neill dispels misconceptions surrounding the safety of Diet Coke by explaining that the studies linking it to health risks were based on extremely high doses of aspartame in rats, which do not translate to human consumption. Furthermore, extensive research has shown no significant negative health effects from moderate Diet Coke consumption. O'Neill advises moderation, suggesting that having no more than two to three artificially sweetened beverages a day to maintain a balanced diet.
Debunking World Health Organization's Claims
The podcast host and guest discuss recent claims made by the World Health Organization (WHO) that artificially sweetened beverages are not conducive to weight loss. They highlight the flaws in the WHO's analysis, which discounts other dietary factors and exercise levels in study participants. The WHO's conclusions have garnered controversy among scientists, with many disagreeing with the associations drawn between artificially sweetened drinks and weight gain. Ultimately, listeners are encouraged to enjoy Diet Coke in moderation and prioritize a well-rounded diet that includes nutrient-rich options such as fruits.
Diet Coke is one of the most controversial topics on the planet right now and is stuck in yet another media frenzy for its potential carcinogenic ingredient 'aspartame'. Quite partial to an emotional support diet coke herself, in this week's bonus episode, Phoebe chats to clinical nutritionist Sally O'Neil to find out if it's really as bad for us as we're being led to think.