Q. Since diabetes runs in our family, our family physician recommended I stop drinking any sodas including diet sodas. I don’t understand what the problem is with diet sodas; after all, they do not contain sugar.

A. Because of the sweet taste, diet sodas trick the pancreas into believing you are ingesting sugar. In response, the pancreas releases insulin. However, there is no sugar for the insulin to manage. Eventually, this can lead to insulin resistance that is linked with Type 2 Diabetes. After drinking a diet soda, a sugar craving usually results as the insulin reduces glucose levels. Consequently, you might eat ice cream, cookies, candy, or a chocolate bar, which can contribute to obesity and that may trigger the pancreas to release even more insulin. Make pure water your beverage of choice and avoid triggering the pancreas to release insulin.