Women with type 2 diabetes can better manage their condition by swapping diet drinks for water, new research has revealed.
A recent study presented at the meeting of the American Diabetes Association (ADA) has suggested that women with type 2 diabetes will lose more weight if they opt to drink water over a diet drink.
In addition, they are more likely to put their condition into remission if they drink water rather than diet beverages.
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First author Dr Hamid Farshchi said: “These findings challenge a common belief in the US that diet drinks have no potential negative effects for managing weight and blood sugar.”
Data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has revealed that one in five Americans consume a diet drink each day.
According to the research team, diet drinks could have a negative impact on the body, even though they are calorie-free.
Previous studies have suggested that type 2 diabetes can be triggered by a high intake of artificial sweeteners.
A total of 81 women with type 2 diabetes took part in this new trial by following a six-month weight-loss programme, followed by one year on a weight maintenance programme.
Throughout the study, half of the participants drank water, while the other half drank diet beverages.
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The women who drank water during the trial lost 15lbs, compared to those in the diet drinks group losing roughly 10lbs, the results have identified.
In addition, the findings have shown that 90% of the water drinks achieved type 2 diabetes remission, while only 45% of the diet beverage drinkers put their condition into remission.
Dr Farshchi stated: “With most women in the water group achieving type 2 diabetes remission, our study highlights the importance of promoting water, not just low-calorie alternatives, as part of effective diabetes and weight management. It’s a small change with the potential for a big impact on long-term health outcomes.”
