Ranking Popular Sodas: Which One Is Healthiest?
Sodas are a popular go-to drink, but not all of them are created equal when it comes to health. Here’s a breakdown of four common sodas, ranked and reviewed based on their ingredients, sugar content, and overall health impact.
1. Dr. Pepper
Dr. Pepper is one of the oldest major soft drinks in America and is known for its blend of 23 unique flavors. It’s sweet with a hint of spice, and some say it has a “peppery” taste. Many people love it because the high fructose corn syrup gives the flavor a strong pop. While it’s tasty, it’s not exactly a healthy drink. A 12-ounce can contains 150 calories and 40 grams of sugar, which is higher than many other sodas. Dr. Pepper may be delicious, but it’s not the healthiest option out there.
2. Mountain Dew
Mountain Dew was originally created in the 1940s by Hartman Beverage Company and is now owned by Pepsi. It is known for its bright color and flavor. It has a high caffeine content, making it a popular pick for those who want an energy boost. But it also has the most sugar of the four drinks listed here, which is 46 grams in a single 12-ounce can. That’s 170 calories of mostly sugar. While it’s ranked third in national soft drink sales, it ranks lowest on this list in terms of healthiness.
3. Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola is one of the most iconic sodas in the world. It was invented in the late 1800s by John Stith Pemberton in Atlanta, Georgia. A 12-ounce can of Coke has 140 calories and 39 grams of sugar. While it’s not the healthiest, Coca-Cola offers several alternatives like Coke Zero and Diet Coke that have little to no sugar. If you enjoy the taste but want a better option, one of those versions might be a better choice.
4. Sprite
Sprite was created in 1966 and is known for its crisp lemon-lime flavor. It contains no caffeine, which makes it different from many other sodas. A 12-ounce can has 140 calories and 38 grams of sugar, which is slightly less than Dr. Pepper or Coca-Cola. Sprite is made with natural flavors and is often seen as a “lighter” soda. While it’s still sugary, it is slightly more healthy. Sprite is also a favorite for many because of its refreshing taste and variety of flavors.
Conclusion:
When comparing these four sodas, none of them could really be called healthy, but Sprite and Coca-Cola are slightly better choices when it comes to sugar and calorie content. Mountain Dew, while popular and energizing, ranks the lowest due to its high sugar and calorie count. If you’re going to reach for a soda, moderation is key. Maybe consider a diet version if you’re looking for a healthier swap.
