Too Much Cola Can Cause Muscle Problems

What does the data say about excessive consumption of non-fructose containing colas and, for that matter, about non-fructose, non-caffeine containing carbonated beverages? Do they also contribute to hypokalemia, tooth problems, bone demineralization, muscle weakness, and/or development of metabolic syndrome and diabetes?

I consume up to 48 ounces of diet carbonated beverages each day, because I dislike water. I've noticed in the past that when I cease drinking these beverages, substituting decaffeinated teas, the arthritis pain in my joints decreases such that I need less Aspirin to control it and the pain in my muscles that occurs at night and keeps me from sleeping also decreases. Any data to support this?

Pat of NC 7:30PM May 27, 2009