You can't have your 'Coke' and drink it, too.

Soda often gets blamed for America's obesity problems. And despite our ever-growing knowledge of its health risks (diabetes, obesity, etc.) we continue a torrid love affair with the drink. I must admit there is something wonderful about that first sip of Coca-Cola on a hot summer day.

 Since Americans are notorious for wanting to have their Coke and drink it too,  using aspartame (the key sweeter for diet sodas) in place of sugar seems like the perfect compromise. The "diet" drink promises the joy of sipping on liquid candy without the painful caloric intake of regular Coke.

Unfortunately, over the years aspartame has been known to stir up controversy over its potential cancer links. The FDA, in a 2006 study, and the American Cancer Society both contend that aspartame is non-carcinogenic. However, this data is refuted by a growing number of sources who question the legitimacy and ethics behind the FDA's studies.  Plenty of other scientific studies conclude just the opposite-- that the sweetener can be linked to cancer.

While it is fairly clear experts don't agree on the carcinogenic nature of aspartame, it is hardly arguable that the sweetener is without fault. Although the FDA claims the artificial sweeter is safe they also say "pregnant women with hyperphenylalanine (high levels of phenylalanine in blood) have a problem with aspartame because they do not effectively metabolize the amino acid phenylalanine, one of aspartame's components".  And, "a new Danish epidemiological study may push the European
Parliament to place warning labels addressing pregnant women on aspartame." via http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2011/05/03/

A recent study reviewed by Planet Green says "those who drank diet soda every day had a 61% increased risk of stroke over those who drank other types of soda".  Via Popular Drink Increases Stroke Risk - Planet Green.

So, for health's sake, put down that diet soda.

If you would like a nice soda alternative I highly recommend the pregnant-ladies-soda.

If you must have that Coke, look for Mexican Coke or Kosher Coke made for Passover. Kosher Coke has a yellow cap and is sold around passover in many grocery stores. Here is a fantastic map for locating Mexican Coke in your area.

And, if you're a Pepsi fan, they offer natural varieties in both Dr. Pepper and Sierra Mist. They also have a Throwback line with natural sugars.