Q: I have a weight problem and I like to drink diet sodas, but I'm wondering if the artificial sweeteners are bad for my health?
A: One of the most popular and controversial kinds of artificial sweetener on the market is aspartame. A 1994 study suggested that some people are susceptible to headaches after using aspartame; another indicated that the EEG brainwaves of children who suffer from seizures become more erratic after consuming the sweetener.
Ironically, diet drinks may not help you restrict your calories. A 1997 study found that women who drank sugary beverages took in fewer calories the next day than those imbibing aspartame-sweetened drinks, while diet drinkers' calorie intake rose. Aspartame, it seems, may be an appetite stimulant.
There are times when diet drinks are useful. Diabetics, hypoglycemics, those with high triglycerides and others trying to restrict dietary sugar will be safer drinking them, though I'd recommend seltzer or tea first.
PHOTO (COLOR): IP6 protects the heart from damage during a heart attack.
PHOTO (COLOR): A Natural form of Prozac
PHOTO (COLOR): So-called "diet drinks" may be sugar-free, but they're little help in losing weight.
PHOTO (COLOR): On the DHEA Watch
Dr. Richard Firshein, founder of the Firshein Center for Comprehensive Medicine in New York City, is the author of Reversing Asthma: Breathe Easier With This Revolutionary New Program (Warner Books) and The Nutraceutical Revolution, to be published by Riverhead Books in January 1999. Please note that the information in this column is intended solely for educational purposes and may not be relevant to your particular condition. Remember to always consult your physician before embarking on any change in your current medical program.
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