NNS beverages may match water in weight control
Adults assigned to nonnutritive sweetened beverages or water maintained weight reductions through 104 weeks, with no statistically significant difference between groups.
By
Andrea Surnit
October 6, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: NNS beverages may match water in weight control
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Weight Management Key Mechanisms Comparison of nonnutritive sweetened beverages and water in weight control Target Population Adults aged 18 to 65 years with BMI 27 to 35 Care Setting Behavioral weight-management program
Key Highlights
Both NNS beverages and water resulted in significant weight loss over 104 weeks. Weight loss was most pronounced during the initial 12-week phase. No statistically significant differences in weight change between groups. Metabolic outcomes varied, with water group showing greater reductions in glycated hemoglobin. Attrition affected the study, with only 220 of 493 participants completing week 104. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Monitor body weight and metabolic parameters in weight management programs. Management
Incorporate both NNS beverages and water in dietary interventions for weight loss. Monitoring & Follow-up
Assess changes in body weight, waist and hip circumference, and metabolic markers. Risks
Consider potential limitations in generalizability due to single-site study and lack of demographic data. Patient & Prescribing Data
Adults participating in a weight-management program.
Both beverage options can be effective for weight loss without significant differences.
Clinical Best Practices
Encourage regular monitoring of weight and metabolic health in participants. Promote behavioral sessions to support weight management efforts. Related Resources & Content
