As you may recall, I mentioned as a part of “My Super Sweet 15″ Challenge that my personal trainer, Vanessa, will be providing you all with some really useful advice regarding diet and fitness every other week. This week’s tip is related to diet - keep reading below!
Myth Buster #1: DIET soda is better for you that REGULAR soda

Reality: It may lead to weight gain
Vanessa says …
Just because diet soda is low in calories, that doesn’t mean it cannot lead to weight gain. It may have only 5 or fewer calories per serving, but research suggests that consuming sugary-tasting beverages—even if they’re artificially sweetened—may lead to a high preference for sweetness overall. That means sweeter (and more caloric) cereal, bread, dessert—everything. In fact, new research found that people who drink diet soda on a daily basis have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. These
days, the world of food is full of nasty surprises like this one, and knowledge is power.
Alternatives: Water, water, and more water! Add a lemon or cucumber slice for flavor. Fresh brewed (NOT bottled) green tea with a teaspoon of Raw Sugar is another great choice. Drink it hot or pour it over ice. I realize that it’s not easy to replace that sweet bubbly stuff! If you’re a heavy pop drinker, start by weaning yourself off by reducing the number of cans/glasses you drink per day. Before you know it, drinking soda will be a thing of the past!
Thanks for the tip Vanessa! This tip completely speaks to me and I’ve been trying to decrease my diet soda intake to 2 cans a week versus 4. It is hard because like you said, I love the sweet bubbly stuff. Replacing my cravings with sweet green tea helps alot. See you tonight so you can kick my butt =)