# University of Liverpool weight loss study > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/university-of-liverpool-weight-loss-study > Updated: 2026-10-25T08:05:30.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2. Researchers at the University of Liverpool conducted a two-year study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, to compare the effects of water versus sugar-free beverages on weight loss among overweight adults. The study involved 493 participants, though only 220 completed the full 104-week period. Findings indicated that the group consuming sugar-free drinks containing aspartame, acesulfame-K, and sucralose lost an average of 4.8 kg, while the water group lost an average of 3.7 kg. Researchers noted that this 1.1-kg difference was not statistically significant. While hunger levels increased significantly in the sugar-free group, the data did not suggest that sweeteners cause persistent disruptions to appetite. Broader health discussions surrounding the study include concerns from the World Health Organization regarding long-term sweetener use and the 2023 classification of aspartame as ‘possibly carcinogenic to humans’. Experts suggest that while sugar-free drinks may serve as an alternative to sugary beverages, they are not a direct weight-loss solution and may still contain caffeine and acids. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-25: University of Liverpool study examines sugar-free drinks and weight loss A University of Liverpool study found no statistically significant difference in weight loss between overweight adults drinking sugar-free soft drinks and those drinking water over two years. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/university-of-liverpool-study-examines-sugar-free-drinks-and-weight-loss ### 2026-10-10: Weight loss research compares water and sugar-free beverages Studies show no statistically significant weight loss difference between water and sugar-free drinks, while experts warn that 'zero' labels do not guarantee health benefits or long-term safety. 7 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/weight-loss-comparison-between-water-and-sugar-free-drinks --- Cite as: University of Liverpool weight loss study. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/university-of-liverpool-weight-loss-study