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Diet Soda May Alter Our Gut Microbes And Raise The Risk Of Diabetes

Should we drink diet soda or not? The latest study doesn't really clear things up. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images hide caption

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Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

The Salt

Diet Soda May Alter Our Gut Microbes And Raise The Risk Of Diabetes

There's a new wrinkle to the old debate over diet soda: Artificial sweeteners may alter our microbiomes. And for some, this may raise blood sugar levels and set the stage for diabetes.

Diet Soda May Alter Our Gut Microbes And Raise The Risk Of Diabetes

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Diet Soda: Fewer Calories In The Glass May Mean More On The Plate

Ditching sugar-sweetened drinks in favor of diet ones shaves the empty calories. But it doesn't help if you make up for those calories on your plate. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images hide caption

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Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

The Salt

Diet Soda: Fewer Calories In The Glass May Mean More On The Plate

The latest evidence that artificially sweetened drinks may be making us hungrier? Heavier-set people who choose diet beverages are making up the calorie gap at meals and through snacks — especially sweet ones, researchers report.

Do Diet Drinks Mess Up Metabolisms?

Some researchers think that artificial sweeteners, most frequently consumed in diet drinks, may confuse the body. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images hide caption

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Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

The Salt

Do Diet Drinks Mess Up Metabolisms?

A body of evidence suggests artificial sweeteners — most often consumed in diet drinks — could raise the risk of weight gain and type 2 diabetes. Some researchers think that artificial sugar may confuse the body.

Do Diet Drinks Mess Up Metabolisms?

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