Diet Soda and your Health

Articles by Dr. Erdman are for informational purposes, and are not to be taken as specific medical advice.

It feels like summer is fast approaching and we are thinking of fitting into swimming suits once again.  Some might feel that switching to diet soda is a way to cut calories, yet still enjoy the beverage.  I hate to be the bearer of bad news yet again, but it doesn’t work that way.  All soda has negative health effects, and should be consumed very sparingly, if ever. 

 

Pepsi has announced that Diet Pepsi will be switching from aspartame to sucralose, as the artificial sweetener.

So why is Pepsi Co switching?  As many studies over the years have shown, aspartame is just hazardous to your health. It is carcinogenic in many ways, and people are rejecting its use.

Dark Chocolate

Articles by Dr. Erdman are for informational purposes, and are not to be taken as specific medical advice.

Since we are approaching the Easter season, many people celebrate with gifts of chocolates and candies. First, let’s remember why we have Easter celebrations. Secondly, we can look on the bright side of some of the candy we may consume.

Obviously, most candy is nothing but sugar and generally not what we look to eat regularly or in any serious amounts. Sugar in general is just not healthy and most candy is just that, not healthy.

What if I told you there is a sweet treat that is tasty and healthy? Of course I’m talking about dark chocolate. Dark chocolate contains a high amount of cacao seeds, which is the secret to its healthfulness. The darker the chocolate the higher percentage of cacao, and the healthier it is. 

Actually raw cacao is the best option, but it is very bitter and not tolerated by most people. Choose a dark chocolate with 70% cacao or more for the best health benefits.