Mark Hyman believes that there is conclusive evidence of a link between diet drinks and obesity. The artificial sweeteners in these drinks actually ‘trick’ the body into thinking it’s getting sugar, and confusing it, as it doesn’t know how to respond to the sweeteners. The body’s confused attempts to deal with the artificial sweeteners actually leads to weight gain.

Major effects of sweeteners

• stimulate appetite
• weight gain
• lowers core body temperature
• slows metabolism down

Overall Rating (1-5): 4

Entertainment Rating: 4

Interesting attempt to connect weight gain to artificial sweeteners, claiming that diet drinks actually contribute to obesity.

Instructional Rating: 4

Good scientific explanation of how it is possible for diet drinks to lead to weight gain.

More information: http://www.ultrawellness.com/blog.