A new study found that diet soda may be the reason people are gaining weight. 

A study by Purdue University, shows artificial sweeteners can sometimes have a negative effect on an individual's metabolism. According to the study, diet brands disrupt how the body processes regular sugars. 

The study was published in the journal of Trends in Endocrinology Metabolism. 

"Accumulating evidence suggest that frequent consumers of these sugar substitutes may also be at increase risk of excessive weight gain, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease," the article said. 

Susie Swithers, author and professor of psychological science and a behavioral neuroscientist told USA Today, that people should asking the right questions. 

"Are diet sodas worse for you than regular soda?" Swithers asked. "I think that's the wrong question. Its 'What good are sodas for you in the first place?"

The American Beverage Association emailed a statement to USA Today:

"This is an opinion piece, not a scientific study. Low-calorie sweeteners are some of the most studied and reviewed ingredients in the food supply today. They are a safe and an effective tool in weight loss and weight management, according to decades of scientific and regulatory agencies around the globe."