Dr. Sunil - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Sunil

Is Minute Maid Bad For You?


Grade

F


Short answer

This popular drink does not offer any health benefits. The high fructose corn syrup is the second ingredient and has been linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome. The preservatives and yellow dye are not supporting cellular health.

Grade

F

Recommended Alternative


Long answer

Minute Maid Lemonade is a popular drink that is high in calories and contains high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). This sweetener is inexpensive and has found its way in so many popular foods. HFCS is processed though cornstarch where manufactures take an enzyme that converts parts of the glucose into fructose. Fructose is sweeter than glucose and has been linked to Type 2 diabetes, elevated blood lipid levels and visceral obesity.  Visceral obesity is the accumulation of intra-abdominal fat that is linked to toxic accumulation in the body. This “toxic soup” leads to chronic degenerative diseases.  HFCS is almost always sourced from genetically modified corn which is a controversial subject.  Genetically modified foods are linked to toxicity in the form of the glyphosate usage in the spraying of crops that bring this poison into the root supply of the plants. HFCS is also linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.  HFCS is a sugar that allows our body to accumulate fat cells and does nothing to support our vital organs or overall cellular stability.

The other concern with this beverage is the addition of Yellow dye #5. If this beverage is a true natural lemonade then there is no reason to add a toxic dye.  This dye is banned in several European countries and is linked to significant allergic and hyperactive reactions in children. Yellow dye #5 is a synthetic chemical known as tartrazine. For individuals that are sensitive to aspirin the chances for hypersenitivy with Yellow dye #5 is more prevalent. The Food Standard Agency in the UK (the FDA equivalent in the US) states that tartrazine can be responsible for adverse behavioral reactions in children.  If you find a product that contains a synthetic dye it would be best to avoid it at all costs.

It has been proven that cancer cells will thrive on sugar intake. It would be best to avoid high carbohydrate beverages. In this instance the best alternative would be to add fresh lemon to your morning water and allow this homemade refreshing drink to cleanse your liver and assist with immune function and improved digestive function. It will be a better way to start your day and skip all of the beverages that are loaded with added sugars.  Carry water with you during the day and this will assist with important detoxification.


Possible short-term side effects

  • allergic reaction
  • hypersensitivty
  • elevated glucose

Possible long-term side effects

  • obesity
  • metabolic syndrome

Ingredients to be aware of


Benefits

  • none

Healthier alternatives

  • fresh homemade lemonade-just water and lemon

Our Wellness Pick (what is this?)

Uncle Matt's Juice Boxes

  • Rich in Vitamin C
  • Fortified with Vitamin D
  • Added Zinc benefits
  • No added sugar
  • Organic Superfruit Punch
Learn More!



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Dr. Becky Maes
Published on: 08-01-2018
Last updated: 12-15-2023

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Dr. Becky Maes
Published on: 08-01-2018
Last updated: 12-15-2023




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