Wouldn't it be great if you could wash away your worries about Type 2 diabetes? Well, a new 18-month study presented recently at the Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association reveals just how powerful an influence your choice of beverage can be.

Researchers divided women with Type 2 diabetes who were in a weight management program into two groups. Some drank only water while they followed the program, and others drank non-sugar-sweetened drinks.

The results showed that 90% of the participants in the water group experienced remission of their Type 2 diabetes, while only 45% of those drinking the artificially sweetened thirst-quenchers did.

This adds to the ever-growing evidence that artificially sweetened drinks are not a smart alternative to sugar-packed sodas, juices, and energy drinks.

One recent study indicated that (along with other lifestyle choices), daily intake of artificial sweeteners is linked to a higher risk of stroke, heart disease, and death overall.

Another found that the “fake” sweets confuse the body, amping up hunger and causing increased risk for Type 2 diabetes and other metabolic problems.

Water, along with paper-filtered black coffee and green and black teas, are the beverages that promote better health and help slow aging.

For more information on how to reclaim your health (it's never too late), check out my book "This Is Your Do-Over: The 7 Secrets for Losing Weight, Living Longer, Keeping Your Brain Functioning, Having Great Sex, and Finding Total-Body Wellness."