Functional drinks are officially taking over the beverage market, moving far beyond basic hydration into wellness, energy, focus, and gut health. From adaptogenic blends and nootropic mocktails to vitamin-infused waters and probiotic tonics, consumers are swapping sugary sodas for functional beverages that deliver targeted health benefits.


Functional drinks are taking over: beyond just hydration

Non-alcoholic drinks are gaining popularity in Germany as more people embrace a healthier lifestyle and alternative options for socializing. From zero-proof beers to alcohol-free cocktails, the demand for these beverages is on the rise. The trend reflects a growing shift towards moderation and wellness, with many choosing to enjoy their favorite drinks without the buzz.

No Buzz, No Problem: Non-Alcoholic Drinks Gain Popularity In Germany | WION Fineprint

A recent study conducted in Shanghai suggested that consuming two litres of diet soda or other artificially sweetened beverages per day could heighten the risk of experiencing a dangerous irregular heartbeat by 20 per cent, in comparison to individuals who abstain from such drinks entirely.

The research discovered a correlation between the consumption of these beverages and susceptibility to atrial fibrillation, a condition characterised by the chaotic quivering of the heart's top chambers.

Theodore Maglione, an assistant professor of medicine specialising in cardiovascular diseases, reportedly explained that atrial fibrillation can manifest symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and palpitations.

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Maglione emphasised the significance of controlling modifiable risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, sleep apnea, obesity, and diet. He underscored the importance of maintaining optimal blood pressure and adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise and a balanced diet low in cholesterol and fat.

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The study also explored the impact of added-sugar beverages and unsweetened juices on atrial fibrillation risk.

It revealed that added-sugar beverages increased the risk by 10 per cent, while consuming approximately four ounces of unsweetened juice decreased the risk by 8 per cent.

Watch | 90% of Himalayas to face year-long drought at 3°c warming: Study

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Penny Kris-Etherton, a nutritional sciences professor, noted, “This is the first study to report an association between no- and low-calorie sweeteners and also sugar-sweetened beverages and increased risk of atrial fibrillation.”

Moreover, individuals above the age of 65 are at a heightened risk of heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation and stroke, underscoring the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle and avoiding artificially sweetened drinks, especially for this demographic.

Maglione also highlighted a concerning correlation between atrial fibrillation and early dementia. He advised individuals experiencing symptoms of irregular heartbeat to seek medical attention promptly.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A recent study conducted in Shanghai suggested that consuming two litres of diet soda or other artificially sweetened beverages per day could heighten the risk of experiencing a dangerous irregular heartbeat by 20 per cent, in comparison to individuals who abstain from such drinks entirely.

A recent study conducted in Shanghai suggested that consuming two litres of diet soda or other artificially sweetened beverages per day could heighten the risk of experiencing a dangerous irregular heartbeat by 20 per cent, in comparison to individuals who abstain from such drinks entirely. The research discovered a correlation between the consumption of these beverages and susceptibility to atrial fibrillation, a condition characterised by the chaotic quivering of the heart's top chambers. Theodore Maglione, an assistant professor of medicine specialising in cardiovascular diseases, reportedly explained that atrial fibrillation can manifest symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and palpitations. Also Read | Electric vehicles emit more particle pollution than petrol, diesel cars, study says Maglione emphasised the significance of controlling modifiable risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, sleep apnea, obesity, and diet. He underscored the importance of maintaining optimal blood pressure and adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise and a balanced diet low in cholesterol and fat. Also Read | Underwater curtains can save the 'Doomsday glacier'. But there is a massive price tag attached The study also explored the impact of added-sugar beverages and unsweetened juices on atrial fibrillation risk. It revealed that added-sugar beverages increased the risk by 10 per cent, while consuming approximately four ounces of unsweetened juice decreased the risk by 8 per cent. Watch | 90% of Himalayas to face year-long drought at 3°c warming: Study × Penny Kris-Etherton, a nutritional sciences professor, noted, “This is the first study to report an association between no- and low-calorie sweeteners and also sugar-sweetened beverages and increased risk of atrial fibrillation.” Moreover, individuals above the age of 65 are at a heightened risk of heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation and stroke, underscoring the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle and avoiding artificially sweetened drinks, especially for this demographic. Maglione also highlighted a concerning correlation between atrial fibrillation and early dementia. He advised individuals experiencing symptoms of irregular heartbeat to seek medical attention promptly. (With inputs from agencies)

Two litres of diet soda daily raises irregular heartbeat risk by 20 per cent: Study

A 20-year-old woman, identified as Xiao Yu, underwent surgery in Taiwan to remove over 300 kidney stones after years of hydrating herself exclusively with sweetened drinks. She was admitted to Chi Mei Hospital in Tainan due to a fever and severe lower back pain.

An ultrasound and CT scan revealed that Xiao Yu's right kidney was swollen with fluid and contained&nbsp;stones ranging from 5mm to 2cm in size, resembling "little steamed buns." The stones had accumulated due to chronic dehydration and mineral build-up in her kidneys.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/sippin-blues-study-suggests-your-go-to-milk-tea-could-be-the-cause-of-your-depression-641942">Also read | Sippin' blues: Study suggests your go-to milk tea could be the cause of your depression</a>

<h2>Unusual hydration habits</h2>

Xiao Yu disclosed to doctors that she avoided drinking water and, instead, relied on beverages like bubble tea, fruit juice, and alcohol for hydration over an extended period, as reported by The Indepedent.&nbsp;This unusual habit resulted in insufficient water intake, leading to the formation of kidney stones.

Doctors performed a 2-hour-long percutaneous nephrolithotomy surgery, successfully extracting around 300 stones from Xiao Yu's kidney. Following the procedure, her condition stabilised, and she was discharged a few days later.

Also watch |&nbsp;Viral Video: Dutch PM Mark Rutte spills coffee, mops the floor himself

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Dr&nbsp;Lim Chye-yang, the surgeon who conducted the surgery, told Metro news&nbsp;that kidney stones can result from factors such as inadequate water intake or diets high in calcium and protein. He stressed on&nbsp;the importance of proper water intake for diluting minerals in urine, preventing concentrated minerals that elevate the risk of stone formation.

He also noted that, on average, men are three times more likely to develop kidney stones. In Taiwan, men are thrice as likely as women to experience kidney stones, with 9.6 per cent of the Taiwanese population developing kidney stones in their lifetime.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 20-year-old woman, identified as Xiao Yu, underwent surgery in Taiwan to remove over 300 kidney stones after years of hydrating herself exclusively with sweetened drinks.

A 20-year-old woman, identified as Xiao Yu, underwent surgery in Taiwan to remove over 300 kidney stones after years of hydrating herself exclusively with sweetened drinks. She was admitted to Chi Mei Hospital in Tainan due to a fever and severe lower back pain. An ultrasound and CT scan revealed that Xiao Yu's right kidney was swollen with fluid and contained stones ranging from 5mm to 2cm in size, resembling "little steamed buns." The stones had accumulated due to chronic dehydration and mineral build-up in her kidneys. Also read | Sippin' blues: Study suggests your go-to milk tea could be the cause of your depression Unusual hydration habits Xiao Yu disclosed to doctors that she avoided drinking water and, instead, relied on beverages like bubble tea, fruit juice, and alcohol for hydration over an extended period, as reported by The Indepedent. This unusual habit resulted in insufficient water intake, leading to the formation of kidney stones. Doctors performed a 2-hour-long percutaneous nephrolithotomy surgery, successfully extracting around 300 stones from Xiao Yu's kidney. Following the procedure, her condition stabilised, and she was discharged a few days later. Also watch | Viral Video: Dutch PM Mark Rutte spills coffee, mops the floor himself Dr Lim Chye-yang, the surgeon who conducted the surgery, told Metro news that kidney stones can result from factors such as inadequate water intake or diets high in calcium and protein. He stressed on the importance of proper water intake for diluting minerals in urine, preventing concentrated minerals that elevate the risk of stone formation. He also noted that, on average, men are three times more likely to develop kidney stones. In Taiwan, men are thrice as likely as women to experience kidney stones, with 9.6 per cent of the Taiwanese population developing kidney stones in their lifetime. (With inputs from agencies)

Woman in Taiwan replaces drinking water with sweetened drinks, ends up with 300 kidney stones

In a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of agriculture, the global wine industry is facing its toughest challenge in decades. The International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) has predicted a 7% drop in global wine production in 2023, taking it to a level not seen since 1961.

The global picture

This downturn affects nearly every wine-producing region around the world. It's not just one nation's problem; it's a global phenomenon. The OIV's analysis is based on data from 29 countries, representing 94% of global wine production. Extreme weather conditions, including early frosts, heavy rainfall, and droughts, are the culprits behind this widespread drop in production.

Country-wise impact

In the Southern Hemisphere, countries like Australia, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, and Brazil have been hit hard, experiencing production reductions ranging from 10% to a staggering 30%. These once-thriving wine regions are grappling with challenging weather patterns, and the consequences are clear.

In the Northern Hemisphere, Italy, Spain, and Greece have faced their fair share of difficulties during the growing season. Italy, in particular, witnessed a 12% drop in production, marking its lowest level since 2017. Spain, another heavyweight in the wine world, saw a 14% decrease year on year and a 19% fall over five years. As a result, the European Union's wine production has hit its third-lowest point in the last century, falling by 7% to 150 million hectoliters.

Exceptions to the rule

Not all regions are suffering equally. The United States, the world's fourth-largest wine producer, has shown resilience with a 12% increase in production in 2022. Cooler temperatures and ample winter rains in California's Napa and Sonoma valleys have played a pivotal role in this success.

France, renowned for its wine production, has managed to maintain its production levels and now stands as the world's top wine producer for the first time in nine years.

New Zealand is yet another bright spot, with predictions of surpassing its five-year production average.

The silver lining

Amid the challenges, there's a silver lining. The OIV suggests that reduced production could potentially help stabilise a shrinking wine market. Global wine consumption is on the decline, and stocks are high in many regions. This could prevent a drastic drop in prices, providing some relief to the industry.

New techniques, technologies, and a renewed focus on sustainability are emerging as the industry's response to climatic challenges. As the wine world navigates these trials, it's crafting its own vintage - one with a promise of better years ahead.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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In a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of agriculture, the global wine industry is facing its toughest challenge in decades. The International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) has predicted a 7% drop in global wine production in 2023, taking it to a level not seen since 1961.

In a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of agriculture, the global wine industry is facing its toughest challenge in decades. The International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) has predicted a 7% drop in global wine production in 2023, taking it to a level not seen since 1961. The global picture This downturn affects nearly every wine-producing region around the world. It's not just one nation's problem; it's a global phenomenon. The OIV's analysis is based on data from 29 countries, representing 94% of global wine production. Extreme weather conditions, including early frosts, heavy rainfall, and droughts, are the culprits behind this widespread drop in production. Country-wise impact In the Southern Hemisphere, countries like Australia, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, and Brazil have been hit hard, experiencing production reductions ranging from 10% to a staggering 30%. These once-thriving wine regions are grappling with challenging weather patterns, and the consequences are clear. In the Northern Hemisphere, Italy, Spain, and Greece have faced their fair share of difficulties during the growing season. Italy, in particular, witnessed a 12% drop in production, marking its lowest level since 2017. Spain, another heavyweight in the wine world, saw a 14% decrease year on year and a 19% fall over five years. As a result, the European Union's wine production has hit its third-lowest point in the last century, falling by 7% to 150 million hectoliters. Exceptions to the rule Not all regions are suffering equally. The United States, the world's fourth-largest wine producer, has shown resilience with a 12% increase in production in 2022. Cooler temperatures and ample winter rains in California's Napa and Sonoma valleys have played a pivotal role in this success. France, renowned for its wine production, has managed to maintain its production levels and now stands as the world's top wine producer for the first time in nine years. New Zealand is yet another bright spot, with predictions of surpassing its five-year production average. The silver lining Amid the challenges, there's a silver lining. The OIV suggests that reduced production could potentially help stabilise a shrinking wine market. Global wine consumption is on the decline, and stocks are high in many regions. This could prevent a drastic drop in prices, providing some relief to the industry. New techniques, technologies, and a renewed focus on sustainability are emerging as the industry's response to climatic challenges. As the wine world navigates these trials, it's crafting its own vintage - one with a promise of better years ahead. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Sipping with sorrow: Wine output drops to 1961 levels

It is a hangover that this Japanese worker would rather forget soon as he lost a USB drive that had the entire city’s personal details after a night out with his colleagues.

A private contractor, whose name has not been disclosed, lost the memory stick that has personal data on all of its 460,000 residents of the western Amagasaki city, northwest of Osaka, after going for drinks this week.

The employee of a company was commissioned to assist the city’s rollout of COVID-19 relief funds.

Public broadcaster NHK reported that the worker, a man in his 40s, fell asleep on the street after drinking alcohol at a restaurant. When he woke up, his bag containing the flash drive was gone.

The lost USB drive has data of residents’ names, addresses and dates of birth, as well as the bank account numbers of welfare-receiving households, among other information.

So far, there has been no evidence of data being leaked so far, the city officials said.

"We deeply regret that we have profoundly harmed the public's trust in the administration of the city," the&nbsp;Amagasaki official told a press conference, according to AFP news agency.

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The employee reported to the police on Wednesday. However, there is a silver lining. The data was encrypted and protected with a password, according to the city.

“We will thoroughly ensure security management when handling electronic data,” the Japanese Times quoted city officials’ statement.

“We will work to regain our residents’ trust by heightening awareness of the importance of protecting personal information.”

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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It is a hangover that this Japanese worker would rather forget soon as he lost a USB drive that had the entire city’s personal details after a night out with his colleagues.

It is a hangover that this Japanese worker would rather forget soon as he lost a USB drive that had the entire city’s personal details after a night out with his colleagues. A private contractor, whose name has not been disclosed, lost the memory stick that has personal data on all of its 460,000 residents of the western Amagasaki city, northwest of Osaka, after going for drinks this week. The employee of a company was commissioned to assist the city’s rollout of COVID-19 relief funds. Public broadcaster NHK reported that the worker, a man in his 40s, fell asleep on the street after drinking alcohol at a restaurant. When he woke up, his bag containing the flash drive was gone. The lost USB drive has data of residents’ names, addresses and dates of birth, as well as the bank account numbers of welfare-receiving households, among other information. So far, there has been no evidence of data being leaked so far, the city officials said. "We deeply regret that we have profoundly harmed the public's trust in the administration of the city," the Amagasaki official told a press conference, according to AFP news agency. Also read | World's deepest shipwreck discovered around 23,000 feet under sea The employee reported to the police on Wednesday. However, there is a silver lining. The data was encrypted and protected with a password, according to the city. “We will thoroughly ensure security management when handling electronic data,” the Japanese Times quoted city officials’ statement. “We will work to regain our residents’ trust by heightening awareness of the importance of protecting personal information.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Cost of hangover: Japanese man loses USB drive with entire city's personal data after night out

If you get too drunk in a bar, there is a chance it might be the bar’s fault and not yours. While it may sound absurd, a court has concluded that this is correct.

A man who has several instances of being arrested for getting too drunk has managed to win a $5.5 million lawsuit against a bar.

Daniel Rawls claimed it was the bar staff’s fault for serving him alcohol even when they realised he was getting too drunk to handle his drinks.

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Rawls sued the La Fogata Mexican Grill for overserving him drinks, which got him drunk and then led to him getting into a fight with another customer, in which he got injured.

The lawsuit claims that Rawls got into a fight with another customer, Robert Henrickson, in the parking lot of the restaurant. Both the customers had been drinking heavily. When these two men got into a fight, Rawls suffered a head injury.

Rawls claims this head injury is a mistake of the staff of the La Fogata Mexican Grill restaurant as they let the two customers drink even after they observed the two men were getting drunk.

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He also accused the restaurant of being negligent and not calling an ambulance to cater to the injuries of Rawls after his fight with Henrickson, the lawsuit claimed. Rawls also added that the bartender was not trained to identify when a customer was crossing the line of enjoying a drink and getting drunk.

The restaurant has also been accused of not taking care of removing obstacles from the parking lot, “that would pose a tripping or falling hazard to intoxicated patrons”.

If you get too drunk in a bar, there is a chance it might be the bar’s fault and not yours. While it may sound absurd, a court has concluded that this is correct.

If you get too drunk in a bar, there is a chance it might be the bar’s fault and not yours. While it may sound absurd, a court has concluded that this is correct. A man who has several instances of being arrested for getting too drunk has managed to win a $5.5 million lawsuit against a bar. Daniel Rawls claimed it was the bar staff’s fault for serving him alcohol even when they realised he was getting too drunk to handle his drinks. Also watch- 'Hail Satan': News channel mistakenly plays satanic ritual during live telecast Rawls sued the La Fogata Mexican Grill for overserving him drinks, which got him drunk and then led to him getting into a fight with another customer, in which he got injured. The lawsuit claims that Rawls got into a fight with another customer, Robert Henrickson, in the parking lot of the restaurant. Both the customers had been drinking heavily. When these two men got into a fight, Rawls suffered a head injury. Rawls claims this head injury is a mistake of the staff of the La Fogata Mexican Grill restaurant as they let the two customers drink even after they observed the two men were getting drunk. Also read : Russian spy faces investigation after she falls in love with her subject He also accused the restaurant of being negligent and not calling an ambulance to cater to the injuries of Rawls after his fight with Henrickson, the lawsuit claimed. Rawls also added that the bartender was not trained to identify when a customer was crossing the line of enjoying a drink and getting drunk. The restaurant has also been accused of not taking care of removing obstacles from the parking lot, “that would pose a tripping or falling hazard to intoxicated patrons”.

'They overserved me': Man claims it was bar's fault that he got too drunk

Winters call for some warm exotic dishes, but what about the drinks? Don`t settle for your usual soft drinks when you can prep-up for something fancy in little to no time! As we enter the new year, why not add some lip-smacking healthy mocktails to the list? 
 
Yes, with a pinch of the fruity element, your mocktails can be safe and healthy! The key is to use high-quality ingredients and fresh fruit pulp. Most of these mocktails require similar ingredients like lime juice, mint leaves, ice cubes, soda or sparkling water. And trust us; it`s as easy as you could think of! So, make a toast, with these easy-peasy mocktails, shared by Kimaye Health, INI Farms. 
 
Here`s how to go about it in 4 simple steps: 
 
- Muddle the fruit and lime juice with a few mint leaves 
 
 
- Pour the mixture in a glass with 2-3 ice cubes, and honey if needed 
 
 
- Add soda or sparkling water to the brim and mix 
 
 
- Garnish them with a fruit slice and mint leaves to make them festive ready! 
 
 
Some of the fruits that go well are: 
 
Peppy Pomegranate 
 
Goes perfectly with the winter vibe as the blend of maroon with soda looks splendid for a celebration drink. Along with pomegranate juice, you can also throw in a few seeds to garnish and add sweetness to your mocktails. The best part is that you don`t need any added sugar as the natural flavour of pomegranate makes it a wonderful delight! 
 
Tangy Orange 
 
In this citrusy mocktail, you can mix up multiple citrus fruits to flavour up the taste. Oranges are abundant during winter, so make full use of this tangy winter fruit! The fresh orange pulp is a healthier escape from your regular soft drinks or alcohol. A thin slice of orange on the brim will surely make it an instaworthy click! 
 
Blissful Blueberry 
 
Go all blue with your winter theme! The delicious blueberries have always been a sweet delight. Crush and blend them into a smooth mixture. This is something new that you can easily try for your next family get-together. Pair it up with blueberry cheesecake and get into the celebration mode! 
 
Cucumber lemonade 
 
While cucumbers are most adored in summers for their cooling effect and they also make a refreshing drink during the winters. The freshness of cucumbers with lime soda is surely something you wouldn`t want to miss. Don`t just slide them into your salads, instead turn them into a sweet fresh mocktail! 
 
Striking Strawberry Pineapple 
 
Blend in two fruits for some incredible flavour. Pineapple and strawberry go well together because of their sweet and soft nature. With these two fruits, there`s barely any need for added sugar. You can play with the quantity of each fruit to get the desired shade of the drink. 
 
These are some of the best and easy combinations to try for that random get together. Always go for fresh and good quality fruits for better results. Additionally, you can also freeze some small fresh-fruit chunks in ice cubes and drop them in to give your mocktails a flattering look. With these ingredients and tricks in mind, you can add a unique charm to simple parties! 
 
&nbsp;

Winters call for some warm exotic dishes, but what about the drinks? Don`t settle for your usual soft drinks when you can prep-up for something fancy in little to no time!

Winters call for some warm exotic dishes, but what about the drinks? Don`t settle for your usual soft drinks when you can prep-up for something fancy in little to no time! As we enter the new year, why not add some lip-smacking healthy mocktails to the list? Yes, with a pinch of the fruity element, your mocktails can be safe and healthy! The key is to use high-quality ingredients and fresh fruit pulp. Most of these mocktails require similar ingredients like lime juice, mint leaves, ice cubes, soda or sparkling water. And trust us; it`s as easy as you could think of! So, make a toast, with these easy-peasy mocktails, shared by Kimaye Health, INI Farms. Here`s how to go about it in 4 simple steps: - Muddle the fruit and lime juice with a few mint leaves - Pour the mixture in a glass with 2-3 ice cubes, and honey if needed - Add soda or sparkling water to the brim and mix - Garnish them with a fruit slice and mint leaves to make them festive ready! Some of the fruits that go well are: Peppy Pomegranate Goes perfectly with the winter vibe as the blend of maroon with soda looks splendid for a celebration drink. Along with pomegranate juice, you can also throw in a few seeds to garnish and add sweetness to your mocktails. The best part is that you don`t need any added sugar as the natural flavour of pomegranate makes it a wonderful delight! Tangy Orange In this citrusy mocktail, you can mix up multiple citrus fruits to flavour up the taste. Oranges are abundant during winter, so make full use of this tangy winter fruit! The fresh orange pulp is a healthier escape from your regular soft drinks or alcohol. A thin slice of orange on the brim will surely make it an instaworthy click! Blissful Blueberry Go all blue with your winter theme! The delicious blueberries have always been a sweet delight. Crush and blend them into a smooth mixture. This is something new that you can easily try for your next family get-together. Pair it up with blueberry cheesecake and get into the celebration mode! Cucumber lemonade While cucumbers are most adored in summers for their cooling effect and they also make a refreshing drink during the winters. The freshness of cucumbers with lime soda is surely something you wouldn`t want to miss. Don`t just slide them into your salads, instead turn them into a sweet fresh mocktail! Striking Strawberry Pineapple Blend in two fruits for some incredible flavour. Pineapple and strawberry go well together because of their sweet and soft nature. With these two fruits, there`s barely any need for added sugar. You can play with the quantity of each fruit to get the desired shade of the drink. These are some of the best and easy combinations to try for that random get together. Always go for fresh and good quality fruits for better results. Additionally, you can also freeze some small fresh-fruit chunks in ice cubes and drop them in to give your mocktails a flattering look. With these ingredients and tricks in mind, you can add a unique charm to simple parties!

Winter doesn't mean no fun. Say hello to healthy mocktails

Artificially sweetened beverages, a new study has found, are as bad for the heart as the sugar-laden kind.

A study by the nutritional epidemiology research team at the Sorbonne Paris Nord University, in a statement, said: "Artificially sweetened beverages may not be a healthy substitute for sugar drinks, and these data provide additional arguments to fuel the current debate on taxes, labeling and regulation of sugary drinks and artificially sweetened beverages."

Previously also, studies have said the same. A 2019 study found women who had more than two servings of sugary drinks a day -- defined as a standard glass, bottle or can -- had a 63% increased risk of premature death. Men who consumed more than two servings had a 29% increase in risk.

The new research, published Monday in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, analyzed data from over 100,000 adult French volunteers.

The volunteers were divided into three groups: nonusers, low consumers and high consumers of diet or sugary beverages.&nbsp;

Compared to people who didn't drink artificially sweetened beverages, high consumers were 20% more likely to have cardiovascular disease at any particular time. There was a similar result for higher consumers of sugary drinks when compared to nonusers, the researchers found.

The authors, however, said the study could only show an association between the two, not a direct cause.

Another 2019 study found drinking two or more of any kind of artificially sweetened drinks a day was linked to an increased risk of clot-based strokes, heart attacks and early death in women over 50.

Risks were highest for women with no history of heart disease or diabetes and women who were obese.

WHAT TO DO

But what to do if you are addicted?

Experts say drinking water, even if it's carbonated, is a good choice.

"Try infusing fruit into water -- you can purchase a pitcher, fill it with water, then add slices of oranges, lemons, strawberries, watermelon or whatever fruit you like so the water will become infused with the fruit flavor and provide sweetness to your palate," an expert said.

Try a short no-sugar challenge. Because our taste buds turn over every two weeks, we can teach ourselves to crave less sweet things in a short period of time.

Once past those first intense sugar cravings, your taste buds will adjust to find natural foods with sugar more satisfying.

Artificially sweetened beverages, a new study has found, are as bad for the heart as the sugar-laden kind. A study by the nutritional epidemiology research team at the Sorbonne Paris Nord University, in a statement, said: "Artificially sweetened beverages may not be a healthy substitute for sugar drinks, and these data provide additional arguments to fuel the current debate on taxes, labeling and regulation of sugary drinks and artificially sweetened beverages.

Artificially sweetened beverages, a new study has found, are as bad for the heart as the sugar-laden kind. A study by the nutritional epidemiology research team at the Sorbonne Paris Nord University, in a statement, said: "Artificially sweetened beverages may not be a healthy substitute for sugar drinks, and these data provide additional arguments to fuel the current debate on taxes, labeling and regulation of sugary drinks and artificially sweetened beverages." Previously also, studies have said the same. A 2019 study found women who had more than two servings of sugary drinks a day -- defined as a standard glass, bottle or can -- had a 63% increased risk of premature death. Men who consumed more than two servings had a 29% increase in risk. The new research, published Monday in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, analyzed data from over 100,000 adult French volunteers. The volunteers were divided into three groups: nonusers, low consumers and high consumers of diet or sugary beverages. Compared to people who didn't drink artificially sweetened beverages, high consumers were 20% more likely to have cardiovascular disease at any particular time. There was a similar result for higher consumers of sugary drinks when compared to nonusers, the researchers found. The authors, however, said the study could only show an association between the two, not a direct cause. Another 2019 study found drinking two or more of any kind of artificially sweetened drinks a day was linked to an increased risk of clot-based strokes, heart attacks and early death in women over 50. Risks were highest for women with no history of heart disease or diabetes and women who were obese. WHAT TO DO But what to do if you are addicted? Experts say drinking water, even if it's carbonated, is a good choice. "Try infusing fruit into water -- you can purchase a pitcher, fill it with water, then add slices of oranges, lemons, strawberries, watermelon or whatever fruit you like so the water will become infused with the fruit flavor and provide sweetness to your palate," an expert said. Try a short no-sugar challenge. Because our taste buds turn over every two weeks, we can teach ourselves to crave less sweet things in a short period of time. Once past those first intense sugar cravings, your taste buds will adjust to find natural foods with sugar more satisfying.

Artificially sweetened drinks linked to heart issues, study finds

Coca Cola Co. has decided to stop all factory visits by students in Britain after facing backlash that highly sugary drinks cause obesity.&nbsp;

The soft drink company is scrapping free visits to the company&#39;s education centres, five of its factories and recycling centres. The programme included visits by over 500,000 children, reports said.&nbsp;

More than 100,000 children have taken up free trips to the drinks giant&rsquo;s education centres. It is also scrapping a national competition &mdash; the Real Business Challenge &mdash; for secondary schools that&nbsp;involved about 390,000 children.

Real Business Challenge is a national competition that aims to help students develop useful skills such as teamwork and problem-solving.

&quot;Although we took the difficult decision to close our education programme last summer, this decision was taken internally and was not in response to any external pressures relating to our business or our products,&quot; The Independent quoted a spokesman from CCEP as saying.

The spokesman further emphasised that the company remains committed to addressing the barriers that prevent young people from entering the workplace.

&quot;We are currently reviewing how we can continue our work with young people in ways that best support their needs in the communities in which we operate. We are proud of our education programme and the role it played in helping to improve the employability skills of many thousands of young people for more than a decade,&quot; said the Spokesman.

The spokesman also said that those visiting the Education Centers were only ever offered water or juices to drink, &quot;in line with the school food regulations&quot;.&nbsp;

The soda company is scrapping free visits to the company's education centres are five of its factories and recycling centres. The programme included visits by over 500,000 children, reports said

Coca Cola Co. has decided to stop all factory visits by students in Britain after facing backlash that highly sugary drinks cause obesity. The soft drink company is scrapping free visits to the company's education centres, five of its factories and recycling centres. The programme included visits by over 500,000 children, reports said. More than 100,000 children have taken up free trips to the drinks giant’s education centres. It is also scrapping a national competition — the Real Business Challenge — for secondary schools that involved about 390,000 children. Real Business Challenge is a national competition that aims to help students develop useful skills such as teamwork and problem-solving. "Although we took the difficult decision to close our education programme last summer, this decision was taken internally and was not in response to any external pressures relating to our business or our products," The Independent quoted a spokesman from CCEP as saying. The spokesman further emphasised that the company remains committed to addressing the barriers that prevent young people from entering the workplace. "We are currently reviewing how we can continue our work with young people in ways that best support their needs in the communities in which we operate. We are proud of our education programme and the role it played in helping to improve the employability skills of many thousands of young people for more than a decade," said the Spokesman. The spokesman also said that those visiting the Education Centers were only ever offered water or juices to drink, "in line with the school food regulations".

Coca Cola discontinues students factory visits amid obesity backlash in UK

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