ARE SUGAR SUBSTITUTES WORTH THE TRADEOFF?
The U.S. market for soda is worth over $200 billion, fueled by the average American’s annual consumption of nearly 40 gallons of soft drinks — including diet soda. While staying hydrated is good, sending lots of chemical sweeteners into our digestive tracts may not be. Concern for serious health issues started in the early 1970s when scientists linked cyclamate and saccharine, popular synthetic sweeteners, to cancer. Congress banned cyclamate but wouldn’t ban saccharine. More recent studies determined that obesity is related to many types of cancer, and obese people are more likely to consume lots of diet soda. Similarly, high blood pressure, diabetes, and strokes are more likely due to underlying health issues like excessive weight than consuming artificial sweeteners.
In the last decade, more natural sugar alternatives have become available, like stevia, agave, monk fruit, and allulose. Diet soda manufacturers have yet to incorporate these into their soft drinks, but they are experimenting. The Coca-Cola Company uses stevia along with erythritol (another new sugar substitute) in its Vitamin Water Zero. Artificial sweeteners do provide some benefits, including fewer cavities, lower blood sugar, and less weight gain. However, some people still suffer side effects from drinking diet soda. The sugar alcohols in diet sodas are linked to intestinal distress, and one scientist points to a potential link between laboratory- created sweeteners and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The importance of our stomach’s microbiome is new to science, and all impacts are under intense scrutiny. Sugar-free beverages may be a better choice than sugar- infused drinks because they don’t cause insulin spikes, but the Mayo Clinic warns that frequent consumption of any type of sweetened drink can become habit-forming, making it hard to return to drinking plain water, which is the optimal choice for health. As with most food trends, we should be informed, listen to our bodies, and make wise choices about what we drink and eat.
Managing Anxiety in Midlife SIMPLE SOLUTIONS FOR A CALMER MIND
As we age, life’s demands shift in ways that can heighten anxiety. Many older adults navigate significant changes — increased career demands, aging parents, and chronic health conditions. Hormonal shifts associated with aging, especially among women, can also amplify stress and unease. Common symptoms include irritability and panic, insomnia, trouble with memory and focus, and digestion problems. Fortunately, there are strategies to help you regain control and maintain your well-being. Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques. Mindfulness techniques encourage you to focus on the present moment, which can counteract racing thoughts and reduce feelings of worry. Mindfulness-based practices include meditation, deep breathing, and yoga. Even a few minutes of daily practice can make a big difference. Stay physically active. Physical activity releases endorphins, which improve mood and reduce stress. Activities like walking, swimming, and tai chi can be ideal for older adults, as they are gentle on
the body while providing mental health benefits. Aim for 30 minutes of activity most days of the week. Maintain social connections. Strong social ties are one of the most significant predictors of contentment. Reaching out to friends, family, and community groups reduces feelings of isolation and can help manage anxiety. Consider joining a book club, taking a class, or volunteering — these help foster meaningful connections while keeping your mind engaged. Seek professional support. If anxiety feels unmanageable, speaking with a therapist or counselor can help. Cognitive behavioral therapy is beneficial for anxiety, as it enables you to identify and reframe negative thought patterns. In some cases, a medical provider can prescribe helpful medication. Experiencing anxiety in your 50s and 60s is more common than you think, but it’s also manageable. Taking proactive steps today can lead to a calmer, more confident tomorrow.
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