When comparing the sugar content of two popular soft drinks, Coca-Cola and Mountain Dew, it’s important to take a closer look at their nutritional information. Both sodas are widely consumed across the United States and many other countries, but they have slightly different compositions.
Coca-Cola is a carbonated soft drink that was first introduced in 1886. A standard 12-ounce can of Coke contains 39 grams of sugar, which is equivalent to about 10 teaspoons. The sugar in Coke comes from high fructose corn syrup, which is a highly processed sweetener made from corn starch. The soda also contains caffeine, phosphoric acid, and natural flavors. The company has also introduced a zero-sugar version called Diet Coke that is sweetened with artificial sweeteners.
Mountain Dew, on the other hand, is a citrus-flavored soda that was first introduced in 1948. A standard 12-ounce can of Mountain Dew contains 46 grams of sugar, which is equivalent to about 11.5 teaspoons. The sugar in Mountain Dew also comes from high fructose corn syrup. Mountain Dew also contains caffeine, artificial flavors, and yellow 5 and yellow 6, which are artificial colorings. The company has introduced a diet version called Diet Mountain Dew that is sweetened with artificial sweeteners.
Based on these numbers, it’s clear that Mountain Dew contains more sugar than Coke. A can of Mountain Dew contains 7 more grams of sugar than a can of Coke, which may not seem like a lot, but it does add up over time. Both of these sodas are considered to be very high in sugar and are not recommended for regular consumption.
According to the American Heart Association, men should consume no more than 36 grams of added sugar per day, while women should consume no more than 25 grams. Drinking a single can of either Coke or Mountain Dew would put you well over these daily limits, and regular consumption of these drinks has been linked to a variety of health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
It’s worth noting that both Coke and Mountain Dew have reduced-sugar versions available. Diet Coke and Diet Mountain Dew both contain zero calories and no sugar, but they are sweetened with artificial sweeteners, which some people prefer to avoid. Additionally, both companies now offer versions of their sodas that are sweetened with natural sweeteners like stevia and cane sugar, which may be slightly healthier alternatives.
It’s important to note that drinking soda is not the only way to consume sugar. Many processed and packaged foods, as well as fruit juices and sports drinks, contain high levels of added sugars. It’s important to be mindful of your sugar intake and to consider healthier alternatives like water, unsweetened tea, or naturally-flavored sparkling water.
In conclusion, while both Coca-Cola and Mountain Dew are high in sugar, Mountain Dew contains more sugar than Coke. It’s important to limit your sugar intake, as regular consumption of sugary drinks has been linked to a variety of health problems. Choosing diet versions or alternative beverages like water, unsweetened tea, or naturally-flavored sparkling water can help reduce your sugar intake and promote better health.