Drinking artificially sweetened beverages like Diet Coke and Crystal Light may increase your risk of atrial fibrillation (AFib), according to a new observational study. AFib (irregular heartbeat) is a common condition that can lead to stroke, heart failure, and blood clots.

The new study included 10 years of data from 201,856 people. People who drank at least 2 liters of artificially sweetened beverages each week (less than one standard 12-ounce can of soda per day) had a 20% higher risk of AFib. Drinking the same amount of sugary drinks was associated with a 10% increased risk of atrial fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation is estimated to affect more than 12 million Americans by 2030. Age, high blood pressure, obesity, alcohol consumption, and smoking increase the risk of developing atrial fibrillation.

“Based on the reported research results, reducing intake of artificially sweetened beverages to lower the risk of atrial fibrillation is important not only for people who are at high risk, especially due to a strong family history of atrial fibrillation, The same is true in the general public, and the prevalence of atrial fibrillation is predicted to increase in the future,” Penny M. Chris Etherton, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus of Nutritional Sciences, Penn State University, and FAHA, Ph.D., told Berrywell. said in an email.

New research does not prove that sweetened drinks cause atrial fibrillation. However, other studies have also shown that these drinks are associated with worse health outcomes. A large observational study conducted in 2022 found that artificial sweeteners in foods and drinks are associated with a 9% increased risk of heart disease.

Studies have also linked artificially sweetened and sugar-sweetened beverages to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and death.

“We know that artificial sweeteners have a lot of negative effects. It’s really quite provocative, but I think it’s the reality,” said Larry, director of the Heart Rhythm Center at New York University Langonehart. Chinitz, MD, told Berrywell.

100% fruit juice is associated with lower risk of atrial fibrillation

Natural sugar appears to be a healthier alternative to artificial sweeteners, according to new research. Drinking about 1 liter of pure fruit and vegetable juice per week lowered AFib by 8%.

Lena Beer, MS, MD, LD, a cardiovascular dietitian at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, told Berrywell in an email that 100% fruit juice contains vitamins associated with lowering blood pressure, reducing oxidative stress, and reducing inflammation. He said it contains C and other antioxidants. All of this leads to a lower risk of atrial fibrillation.

However, pure fruit juice can contain just as much sugar as sugary drinks. Further research is needed to prove that pure fruit juice may reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation. Research suggests that whole fruits are better for your heart health than pure fruit juice, especially since whole fruits contain fiber, which helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol.

Professor Chinitz said people who choose juice over artificially sweetened beverages may make additional lifestyle decisions that help reduce their risk of atrial fibrillation, so this study showed that pure fruit juices and atrial fibrillation He said that they may have found an association with a lower risk of

“If people are healthy, drink natural types of juices, and don’t use a lot of added sugar or artificial sweeteners, then their lifestyle choices probably have something to do with weight, exercise, healthy living, alcohol, and coffee.” It probably has something to do with the Inn as well,” Chinitz said. .

Other factors that can reduce AFib risk

Genetics, infections, and aging can all increase your risk of AFib, so changing your drink preferences alone won’t prevent AFib.

However, the American Heart Association issued a scientific statement in 2020 acknowledging that lifestyle interventions may help manage atrial fibrillation, although more research is needed.

“It doesn’t necessarily solve the problem, but it certainly helps,” Chinitz said.

Heart-healthy lifestyle changes, such as managing stress, being physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing alcohol intake, and quitting smoking can help lower your risk.

“Atrial fibrillation is now one of the most common heart conditions we treat. We cannot escape from recognizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise.” said Chinitz. “There’s no question that excess sugar and even these artificial sweeteners are bad for your health. So be careful about it.”