Diet Soda Drinkers Are More Likely To Eat Junk Food, Study Says

People who drink diet soda are usually trying to keep trim by indulging in soft drinks without the added sugar, right? Step away from the can.A new study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics claims to show a direct correlation between regular diet soda drinkers and indulgence in junk food.

The study analyzed more than 22,000 American adults over the course of 10 years, and found that diet soft drink consumers were most likely to eat "discretionary foods" like sweets, chips, and fast food. In conclusion, the more diet soda these people consumed, the more likely they were to crave junk food, and bend to those cravings.

"It may be that people who consume diet beverages feel justified in eating more, so they reach for a muffin or a bag of chips," the study's lead author, Ruopeng An told Pop Sugar. "Or perhaps, in order to feel satisfied, they feel compelled to eat more of these high-calorie foods."

Other triggers for junk food? The regular consumption of coffee and alcohol.

So, this is all well and good, but how does the study advise you kick your diet soda habit? An suggests practicing mindful eating: pay attention to what you eat and drink to prevent weight gain.