A pharmacist has shared exactly what happens to the body just an hour after drinking Diet Coke.
Although when drunk in moderation, Diet Coke doesn't pose too much of a risk, previous studies have shown that drinking beverages with artificial sweeteners can lead to weight gain.
Further research suggests drinks containing fake sugars can affect more than just weight. One study, published in the journal Current Atherosclerosis Reports, warns that such drinks could also contribute to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
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The effects of drinking a can of Diet Coke can apparently be seen in just one hour, with an impact seen 10, 20, 40, and 60 minutes after finishing that last sip, the Mirror reports. Qualified pharmacist Niraj Naik, best known as The Renegade Pharmacist, went viral back in 2015 with an infographic about how Diet Coke affects a person.
Here is what he said happens to the body after certain time periods.
10 minutes
Tooth enamel is attacked. Naik said: "The phosphoric acid attacks the enamel in your teeth, while the artificial sweeteners like aspartame hit your system. Aspartame may trigger taste receptors and trick your body into thinking it has just processed sugar."
20 minutes
After 20 minutes, Naik says the drinker's body switches to its "fat storage mode", citing studies from The Nurses' Health Study that connect such beverages to a higher risk of high blood pressure and type two diabetes. The doctor added: "Like regular Coke, this can trigger insulin, which sends your body into fat storage mode."
40 minutes
Naik claims the caffeine and aspartame combination results in a short-term high. If drunk regularly, Naik claims the excitotoxins released could lead to your brain becoming exhausted and overstimulated.
He explained: "The potentially deadly combination of caffeine and aspartame creates a short addictive high similar to the way cocaine works. Excitotoxins are released which may exhaust your brain by overstimulating its neuroreceptors, especially if consumed on a regular basis."
60 minutes
After one hour has passed, Naik says the drinker will be left more hungry and thirsty than they were previously, and more likely to reach for sugary junk food.
He continued: "Unlike the small amount of satisfaction you get from regular coke your body may still crave sweets. This makes you likely to reach for another soda, or worse, some other junk food you consider to be safe, and the cycle continues.
"A can of diet coke provides no nourishment and would replace a more nutritious drink you could have drunk while potentially depleting your body of essential minerals.
"It will never quench your thirst as it dehydrates rather than hydrates your body. A lack of vital water can lead to brain fog, poor concentration, fatigue, and feeling irritable."
The Coca-Cola Company has been approached for comment.
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