“Diet” soft drinks do not damage the liver in the same way as alcohol, viral hepatitis, or certain toxic medications. However, when consumed in large quantities, they may indirectly contribute to metabolic dysfunction–associated fatty liver disease (MASLD, formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, NAFLD). This could be due to artificial sweeteners in these drinks or eating patterns linked to high diet soda consumption.
اضافة اعلان
Gut microbiome may change
Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin can disrupt the balance of beneficial and harmful gut bacteria—a condition known as dysbiosis—especially when consumed in excess.
This imbalance may damage intestinal tissue, increasing gut permeability. In turn, inflammatory substances like lipopolysaccharides can leak into the bloodstream and reach the liver through the portal vein, potentially causing liver inflammation. Chronic liver inflammation is a key risk factor for MASLD, where fat accumulates in the liver, leading to gradual scarring and liver injury.
Insulin response may be affected
Artificial sweeteners in diet soda can sometimes trigger sudden spikes in insulin levels. Over time, excessive consumption may lead to insulin resistance, where the body becomes less responsive to insulin, causing higher blood sugar levels.
Insulin resistance is a major risk factor for MASLD, as high blood sugar contributes to gradual liver damage and fat accumulation. Risk is higher among people with obesity and is worse for those with pre-existing type 2 diabetes. Some studies have linked long-term use of sweeteners such as sucralose and aspartame to insulin resistance, though results vary and more research is needed.
Appetite and calorie intake may increase
Regular consumption of diet soda may lead some people to consume more calories, often unconsciously, due to biological and behavioral factors, such as:
Disrupted brain reward pathways: The sweet taste of zero-calorie sweeteners does not fully activate the brain’s reward system, leaving it unsatisfied and increasing cravings for sugary foods.
Insulin secretion: Sweet taste can stimulate insulin release without real sugar to satisfy hunger, prompting the desire for actual sugar.
Gut microbiome imbalance: Low-level inflammation from increased gut permeability can interfere with the brain’s ability to process satiety signals or respond to ghrelin, the hunger hormone.
These factors can directly contribute to MASLD by promoting overeating and obesity or indirectly by increasing insulin resistance.
In conclusion, while diet sodas do not directly harm the liver like alcohol or viral hepatitis, excessive consumption may increase the risk of fatty liver through metabolic and gut-related mechanisms. Moderation and a balanced diet remain key to liver health.
– Asharq Al-Awsat
