A cardiologist has strongly advised against consuming a certain popular drink, urging people to avoid it.
While many of us might assume we are knowledgeable about our food choices, the reality is that a lot of people are not fully aware of what they are consuming and its impact on their health.
As we age, it becomes increasingly crucial to be mindful of the substances we introduce into our bodies and to recognize whether they are beneficial or harmful.
Recently, a cardiologist has challenged the belief that this widely-consumed beverage is healthier than its counterparts, warning against excessive consumption.
Dr. Dmitry Yaranov took to his TikTok page, @heart_transplant_doc, to post a video of himself in surgical attire, accompanied by the message: “After years in cardiology, this is why I don’t touch ‘diet’ drinks anymore.”
In his caption, he stated: “The biggest lie in your fridge? ‘Zero Sugar’.
“You’ve been told diet sodas are the healthier choice — the ‘better’ option when you’re watching your weight or your blood sugar. But new data say otherwise.
“A major population study just found that people who drink diet or zero-sugar beverages daily have a higher risk of liver disease than those drinking sugary ones.
“Let that sink in — the fake sugar hit harder than the real thing.
“Artificial sweeteners appear to alter gut metabolism and liver fat handling, leading to a ~60% higher risk of metabolic liver disease (MASLD). Sugary drinks? About 50%.
“Water? Safest by far.
“So next time you reach for that ‘zero guilt’ can — remember: ‘Zero Sugar’ doesn’t mean zero impact. Your liver can tell the difference.”
The study, released in October of this year, monitored approximately 124,000 adults over a decade and revealed that individuals who frequently consumed sugary or diet/low-sugar soft drinks had a higher propensity to develop fatty liver disease associated with MASLD.
In an interview with Newsweek, liver specialist Dr. Hal Brindley emphasized the need for additional research to validate the study’s findings.
He commented: “While this study links low-calorie and artificially sweetened beverages to MASLD, further research is required to confirm the underlying mechanisms. These may include appetite stimulation from sweet tastes or interactions with the gut microbiome.
“Currently, the data does not support a need for total avoidance. Instead, a moderate intake is advisable.”
Dr. Yaranov’s warning follows another viral TikTok video from the previous month, featuring cardiovascular surgeon Dr. Jeremy London.
Dr. London highlighted four things individuals over 40 should avoid, including reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption, quitting smoking or vaping, ensuring sufficient sleep, and surprisingly, steering clear of ‘toxic’ people.