Is Too Much Diet Coke Unhealthy?

ON Mar 11, 2010 at 11:12AM

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I don't drink that much diet coke; however, I saw a nutritionist and she said it's loaded with sodium and bad for you.  How much is too much?  I'm 64 and want to lose about 20 lbs. Help!

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Madelyn Fernstrom, Ph.D.
ABOUT THE EXPERT

Madelyn Fernstrom, Ph.D.

iVillage Health Editor-at-Large Madelyn H. Fernstrom, Ph.D., CNS, is the Today show’s Diet and Nutrition Editor as well as the... Read more

A: The battle of diet sodas continues - and there are loads of opinions on this. Here's the truth, based on scientific study. Diet soda CAN be a useful tool. There are no health negatives, but it is your choice, and as with any foods or beverages, moderation is key. If it doesn't agree with you, don't drink it. It's as easy as that. While water is optimal for hydration, or seltzer, many people want something fizzy, without the calories. You don't want to use diet soda to replace a skipped meal, but added to your daily schedule, 20 ounces or so, can be a big help. At 64, your metabolism has slowed somewhat, compared to your 30s, about 5% a decade. So, saving calories from liquids can be a big help. It sounds like you are an occasional user. So, enjoy!

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