Anyone who enjoys a Diet Coke knows the unsolicited advice that comes with it. While I’m not particularly fond of Diet Coke myself, I’ve been known to guzzle anywhere from one to an entire mountain of Coke Zero in a single day. So believe me when I say that it’s time for people to stop flooding me with comments like, “That stuff gives you cancer,” or “It’ll ruin your teeth,” or even “You’re turning into a supervillain.” Admittedly, I haven’t heard the last one yet, but it’s probably coming. The truth is, much of this criticism is exaggerated and downright ridiculous.
It’s puzzling why so many people feel the need to judge my diet soda habits. Ever since I switched from regular soda to diet soda in my 30s, I’ve encountered a surprising amount of backlash that’s hard to counter without just flipping the bird.
If you’re a fellow diet soda enthusiast facing similar criticism, let me share some solid arguments for enjoying Diet Coke, as compiled by Sarah Mitchell over at The Outline. She provides a thorough rundown of rebuttals aimed at silencing the naysayers.
Debunking Common Myths
Take, for instance, the claim that Diet Coke numbs your taste buds. This is a myth I’ve heard too often. If it were true, I’d probably be able to munch on ghost peppers like they were candy! According to Mitchell, “Only a select few conditions can actually harm your taste buds. Diseases of the mouth and certain medications may do the trick, but the primary culprit for taste bud loss is simply aging.”
Then there’s the persistent rumor that Diet Coke causes cancer. As Mitchell points out, “The sweetener in Diet Coke, aspartame (also known as Nutrasweet® and Equal®), is one of the most rigorously tested substances approved for human consumption. No credible link has been established between aspartame and cancer.” If you’re skeptical, rest assured that the National Cancer Institute has addressed concerns surrounding artificial sweeteners. Initial studies linking cyclamate and saccharin to bladder cancer in laboratory animals didn’t translate to humans. Subsequent research has failed to show a clear cancer connection with FDA-approved sweeteners.
Mitchell also tackles claims about diet soda’s links to depression, tooth decay, and diabetes. While some of her sources might not be bulletproof, she does lean on various government and academic studies to construct a strong case for those of you needing defenses against judgmental folks sporting their water bottles and organic deodorants.
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that you’re an adult capable of making your own choices. If you enjoy consuming artificial sweeteners to make it through your busy day, that’s your prerogative. Honestly, if everything people say about diet soda were true, I’d be toothless, boneless, tasteless, and riddled with cancer right now. But here I am, with a full set of healthy teeth and bones, intact taste buds, and—oh yeah—I’m cancer-free. Just today, I polished off two cans of Coke Zero and feel better than ever.
In this hectic life as a working parent, Coke Zero provides a moment of joy, and I really don’t need anyone’s passive-aggressive commentary on my simple pleasure. I’m not looking for a debate. I just want to sip my frosty zero-calorie beverage without the fear of being chastised for it. But if the situation arises, at least now I have some facts up my sleeve to counter any smug co-worker who feels the need to preach about the dangers of my beloved drink.
And let’s be real—watch the comment section light up with warnings about soda ruining my health.
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Summary
Navigating the criticism surrounding Diet Coke and other diet sodas can be frustrating. Many claims about their negative effects on health are often exaggerated or false. If you enjoy your soda, remember that you have the right to make your own choices. With some solid facts at your disposal, you can confidently enjoy your beverage without concern for judgment.