Is diet soda a healthy alternative?

Diet soda has been shown to be problematic when it comes to weight management and insulin response, according to discussions by Andrew Huberman. While diet sodas contain zero calories, they have been associated with an increase in insulin response, leading to increased hunger, weight gain, and potential issues with insulin sensitivity. Despite the absence of calories, the sweetness of the drink can condition the body to release insulin, driving energy into fat storage 1. Moreover, consumption of artificial sweeteners alongside foods that raise blood glucose levels exacerbates these effects, potentially leading to pre-diabetic conditions, particularly in children, as studies have had to be halted due to adverse insulin changes 2.

Therefore, while diet soda may seem like a healthier choice due to the absence of sugar, its consumption can result in negative health outcomes similar to those associated with consuming sugary beverages. If artificial sweeteners are to be used, Dr. Huberman suggests consuming them away from meals that elevate blood glucose to limit the disruption of blood sugar management 3. However, it's essential to be mindful of possible effects on insulin response, hunger, and weight gain when choosing to drink diet soda as an alternative to sugared drinks.