The Latest Medical News

A Summary of The Latest Medical News: ## Both Sugary and Diet Drinks Linked to Higher Liver Disease Risk A landmark study presented at UEG Week 2025 has found that both regular and artificially sweetened beverages—including sodas, diet sodas, and other sweetened drinks—are independently linked to a higher risk of developing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)[1][3][4]. MASLD is the most common chronic liver condition worldwide and currently affects more than 30% of people globally[2]. ## Study Details and Key Findings The research analyzed data from over 120,000 UK Biobank participants who did not have liver disease at the start of the study[1][4]. Over a median follow-up period of 10 years, participants’ beverage consumption was tracked using repeated 24-hour dietary questionnaires[1][4]. The key findings were striking: - **Consuming more than 250g (about one can) daily of low- or non-sugar-sweetened beverages (LNSSBs, often called “diet” drinks) was associated with a 60% higher risk of MASLD**[1][2][4]. - **Drinking the same amount of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) daily increased the risk by 50%**[1][2][4]. - **LNSSBs were also uniquely linked to a higher risk of liver-related mortality, a risk not seen with SSBs**[1][4][5]. - **Both types of drinks were associated with increased liver fat accumulation**[1][5]. - **Replacing either type of sweetened beverage with water reduced MASLD risk—by more than 15% for diet drinks and nearly 13% for sugary drinks**[2]. ## Why Do Sweetened Drinks Harm the Liver? The researchers explored possible mechanisms. Sugary drinks are already under scrutiny for their role in causing rapid blood sugar spikes, promoting weight gain, and increasing uric acid, all of which are linked to fat accumulation in the liver[2]. Artificial sweeteners, previously considered a safer alternative, may disrupt the gut microbiome, increase insulin resistance, and stimulate cravings for sweets, further impacting liver function[2][3]. ## What’s New in Medical News? This study breaks new ground by showing that **both “diet” and regular sodas are similarly harmful to liver health, challenging the perception that artificially sweetened drinks are a safe alternative**[2][3][4]. The findings also highlight that **liver-related mortality is significantly higher in those who regularly consume low- or non-sugar-sweetened drinks—especially concerning given their widespread perception as a “healthier” choice**[1][4][5]. ## Practical Takeaway: Swap Soda for Water **The safest approach, according to the study team, is to limit both sugary and artificially sweetened drinks as much as possible**[2][3]. **Water remains the best choice for hydration and liver health, reducing the risk of fatty liver disease by simply replacing sweetened beverages with water**[2][5]. Doctors and researchers increasingly advise swapping both regular and diet sodas for water or unsweetened alternatives to support long-term metabolic and liver wellness[2][3]. ## Conclusion **This new evidence urges a reevaluation of beverage choices, debunking the myth that diet drinks are a safe alternative to sugar-sweetened sodas.** Both are linked to higher rates of fatty liver disease and, in the case of diet drinks, potentially more severe outcomes. The clear message from experts: when it comes to liver health, water is always the best option[2][3][5]. Help with your insurance? https://tally.so/r/n012P9