Dr. Becky Maes - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Becky Maes

Is Sprite Bad For You?


Grade

C-


Short answer

If overconsumed, Sprite is bad for you. Drinking Sprite every once in a while won't hurt.

Grade

C-

Recommended Alternative


Long answer

Although Sprite is caffeine-free, less harsh on the body, and contains far fewer ingredients than many other sodas, it is still a good idea to moderate your consumption. Sprite contains carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, citric acid, natural flavors, sodium citrate, and sodium benzoate. A few of these ingredients can be detrimental to your health and it is important to understand why.

Because of the high fructose corn syrup (a processed sugar) in Sprite, high consumption is linked to diabetes, weight gain, gout, and colon cancer. Tumors were also formed when given to lab animal. Citric acid is used to enhance flavor, giving Sprite its distinct sour taste. Large amounts of citric acid can erode your tooth enamel over time eventually resulting in the need for a root canal.

Sodium benzoate, the petroleum deriving preservative in Sprite, is also a big health concern. Studies have shown the preservative can cause hives, irritation in the mouth, and even DNA damage. DNA damage, in turn, is linked to many neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Note that this is extremely rare and should only be a concern if you drink Sprite all the time.

Carbonated water, on the other hand, is one of Sprite's benefits. It is hydrating and is known to sooth the stomach when feeling nauseous. This may explain why your parents gave you a carbonated beverage when feeling queasy.


Possible long-term side effects

  • weight gain
  • diabetes
  • gout
  • colon cancer
  • tooth erosion
  • cell damage (rare, but possible)

Ingredients to be aware of



Benefits

  • healthier than many other soda varieties
  • may help relieve nausea
  • caffeine-free

Healthier alternatives

Our Wellness Pick (what is this?)

Zevia Lemon Lime Soda

  • Zero calories
  • No artificial sweeteners
  • Lemon lime flavor
  • Non-GMO Project Verified
Learn More!



Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 12-27-2015
Last updated: 11-30-2023

Thank you for your feedback!

Written by Kathan Natrajan
Published on: 12-27-2015
Last updated: 11-30-2023




Related
Random Page

Check These Out!