Abstract: PUB189
Effects of Diet Soda on Kidney Function: A Scoping Review
Session Information
Category: Health Maintenance, Nutrition, and Metabolism
- 1500 Health Maintenance, Nutrition, and Metabolism
Authors
- Stuart, Dan, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine, Amarillo, Texas, United States
- Shrestha, Kriti, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine, Amarillo, Texas, United States
- Vasylyeva, Tetyana L., Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Medicine, Amarillo, Texas, United States
Background
Diet soft drinks containing artificial sweeteners are a common beverage of choice. It has been theorized that consumption of diet sodas is associated with an increased risk of kidney function decline and associated risk factors. The mechanisms may involve phosphoric acid, uric acid, and inorganic phosphate content, though further research is needed to clarify causality and long-term effects. While some studies examine the effects of sugar and high-fructose beverages on kidney function, fewer have investigated zero- or low-calorie diet sodas with artificial sweeteners, and comprehensive systematic reviews or meta-analyses are lacking.
Methods
A scoping review in adherence with PRISMA guidelines was conducted to better assess the research on diet soda consumption and kidney function. Using index terms such as “diet soda,” “soft drinks,” and “kidney function,” the authors executed a comprehensive search strategy across PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, and CENTRAL. Supplemental records were retrieved through hand searching and grey literature sources. All records were imported into Covidence, then systematically screened and evaluated by two authors. Included articles possessed essential criteria related to diet soda and artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and sucralose, as well as associated kidney and renal outcomes.
Results
Of the 792 records retrieved, 18 were ultimately selected for analysis. Eligibility criteria precluded the inclusion of review studies and those with mismatched conditions, exposures, or outcomes. Several trials closely observed renal outcomes in subjects consuming reasonable quantities of artificially sweetened diet soda. Further observational studies gauged the effects of long-term, high-quantity diet soda consumption in patient populations with existing kidney problems or diabetic complications.
Conclusion
From the observed literature, long-term consumption of diet soda in large quantities may inhibit proper kidney function with kidney injury, renal failure, and diabetic complications perceived as potential risks. In the short term, diuresis and creatinine clearance are closely correlated with moderate-to-high daily diet soda intake. While findings are somewhat consistent, a lack of trial evidence exclusively focusing on diet soda, namely diet cola drinks, prevents a more comprehensive investigation, such as a meta-analysis.