A cardiologist has warned that 'diet' or 'zero sugar' drinks may be worse for health than their sugary counterparts, based on new research. Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, who shares medical advice on TikTok as @heart_transplant_doc, called the 'zero sugar' label 'the biggest lie in your fridge'.
In a video, Dr. Yaranov cited a major population study published in October, which tracked about 124,000 adults for around 10 years. The study found that people who consumed diet or zero-sugar beverages daily had a roughly 60% higher risk of developing metabolic liver disease (MASLD), compared to a 50% higher risk for those drinking sugary drinks.
Dr. Yaranov explained that artificial sweeteners appear to alter gut metabolism and liver fat handling, leading to the increased risk. He urged viewers to remember that 'zero sugar' does not mean zero impact, and that the liver can tell the difference.
However, liver specialist Dr. Hal Brindley, speaking to Newsweek, noted that further research is needed to confirm the mechanisms. He advised that moderate intake is acceptable, and total avoidance is not currently supported by data.
