A nutrition expert has claimed drinking one common beverage can boost cancer risk, and it’s not fizzy drinks.
Dietitian Nichole, known on TikTok as oncology.nutrition, has spoken out about the myth surrounding fizzy drinks and their relation to cancer. She recently caught a lot of people’s attention in a TikTok video where she debunked common health misconceptions, suggesting there’s one particular drink could up your cancer risk.
Contrary to popular belief, Nichole asserts that soft drinks like diet soda do not increase cancer risk as much as people fear. She explained: “This is the biggest misconception that diet sodas, aspartame, increases your cancer risk but wine is so much safer.
“Ok, as a cancer dietitian I want to let you know that aspartame has been studied for over four decades, and they just recently reaffirmed that adequate daily intake, which is like 30 cans of diet soda a day, no adverse effects.
“Are you having 30 cans of diet soda a day? No. The best part is it’s studied all the time and they reaffirmed safety. Alcohol, however, has been put on blast finally – I’m so glad.
“Increased risk of six different cancers. It is not a good way to cope with your stress or your day using alcohol. If you want to reduce your cancer risk, don’t have alcohol.”
The video, which swiftly attracted over 300 views on the social media platform, sparked diverse reactions among viewers who were quick to share their thoughts on Nichole’s health advice.
One individual warned: “Some people just don’t get it. Alcohol is not good for you. The end.” Another commented: “I stay away from both. I used to drink socially, but I gave it up four years ago. I will say I’m a bit more boring in social situations but my health is the priority.”
A third also replied: “I haven’t had alcohol in over a year. Not going to lie, it makes me feel sad that it’s so bad for me. I’m definitely more fun with it.”
Does alcohol really impact cancer risk?
Cancer Research UK confirms that while drinking doesn’t guarantee cancer, it certainly boosts the risk, with all forms of booze potentially leading to damage. If you lower your alcohol consumption, you’ll lower your cancer risk too.
Aside from that, abstaining from alcohol can reduce chances of accidents, high blood pressure and liver issues. Experts identify seven types of cancer linked to alcohol, including cancers of the breast, bowel, mouth, certain throat areas and the liver.
When it comes to aspartame, the artificial sweetener that’s often used as a sugar substitute, concerns have swirled about its association with cancer. It’s designed to be sweeter than real sugar, but current data suggests that consuming products that contain aspartame is unlikely to cause cancer.