Satisfying your thirst shouldn’t come with a side of regret. Yet, many popular beverages pack a sugar punch that can jeopardize your health. The American Heart Association warns against excess consumption, linking it to serious health issues. Here are 15 drinks to avoid because of their high sugar content.
Mountain Dew – 77 grams
Mountain Dew’s high sugar contributes to unnecessary weight gain with regular use. Additionally, the added caffeine leads to dependence and adverse effects when consumed in large amounts.
McDonald’s Frappe Mocha – 57 grams
McDonald’s Frappe Mocha is full of sugar and unhealthy fats, primarily from the whipped cream and chocolate syrup. Consuming such high levels of sugar leads to eenrgy crashes and a risk of chronic diseases. Opt for a plain black coffee for a lower-calorie and lower-sugar option.
Rockstar Energy Drink – 62 grams
Rockstar Energy Drink is packed with sugar and caffeine, providing a quick energy boost but often leading to a subsequent crash. Regular consumption of energy drinks like Rockstar increases heart rate, high blood pressure, and even cardiac events in susceptible individuals.
Snapple Peach Tea – 39 grams
While Snapple Peach Tea may seem refreshing, it is loaded with added sugars. Consuming beverages with added sugars regularly can contribute to weight gain and insulin resistance. Additionally, Snapple Peach Tea may contain artificial flavors and preservatives, which have adverse health effects.
Minute Maid Cranberry Grape – 29 grams
Minute Maid Cranberry Grape juice is marketed as a healthier option but contains significant added sugars. It also lacks the fiber in whole fruits, spiking blood sugar levels. For a similar flavor, drink sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice and a few grapes.
Tropicana Twister Soda – 71 grams
Regular consumption of sodas like Tropicana Twister is associated with weight gain and dental issues. The carbonation in sodas also causes bloating and gastrointestinal discomfort in some individuals. Choose sparkling water flavored with a splash of natural fruit juice for a refreshing alternative.
Bullet Energy Drink – 9.4 grams per 100 grams
Energy drinks often have legal stimulants that can do wonders for your energy as well as your alertness and attention. However, professionals have some strong opinions about how it affects us. These stimulants can affect our nervous system, however. Also note that Bullet contains 9% sugar, according to Open Food Facts.
Dunkin’ Donuts Mocha – 34 grams
Even in the smallest serving, Dunkin’ Donuts Mochas are packed with sugar. While they are sweet and indulgent, they can lead to weight gain and chronic diseases.
Sunkist Orange Soda – 77 grams
Sunkist Orange Soda is a classic but highly sugary beverage with little nutritional value, and regular consumption increases the risk of heart disease. You can prepare a healthier version using sparkling water flavored with a splash of fresh orange juice for a refreshing citrus taste without artificial additives.
Wild Cherry Pepsi – 69 grams
Many love the cherry flavor, but this drink’s sugar content contributes to weight gain, gum disease, and other dental issues. Moreover, it’s packed with artificial coloring and flavors that add no nutritional value. You can add sparkling water to natural cherry juice for the same taste.
Dr Pepper – 64 grams
Consuming sugary sodas like Dr Pepper is associated with chronic fatigue and weight gain. Also, caffeine may lead to dependence and adverse health effects when consumed in large amounts. Choose unsweetened herbal tea or flavored sparkling water for a beverage option without the excessive sugar and caffeine.
Coca-Cola Classic – 39 grams
Coca-Cola is an iconic brand known for its refreshing taste, but besides its high sugar content, it contains phosphoric acid, which leads to dental issues over time. Additionally, its caramel color is produced by a chemical reaction involving ammonia, which has raised health concerns.
Starbucks Caramel Macchiato – 36 grams
This blend of espresso, steamed milk, vanilla syrup, and caramel drizzle offers coffee lovers a sweet and creamy treat. Nevertheless, it’s full of sugar and can throw your blood sugar levels off balance. Also, the amount of caffeine can disrupt sleep patterns and cause jitteriness and anxiety in sensitive individuals.
Arizona Green Tea with Ginseng and Honey – 51 grams
Arizona Green Tea has a refreshing taste and offers the health benefits of green tea and ginseng in an affordable beverage. Yet, it’s packed with sugar, largely negating any potential benefits. Adding honey further elevates the sugar content, contributing to high-calorie intake and potential health risks.
Red Bull – 27 grams
Red Bull is synonymous with energy drinks. Thanks to its caffeine and taurine content, it offers a quick energy boost. It’s a go-to beverage for students and athletes seeking to combat fatigue and improve performance. Aside from its high sugar content, Red Bull contains caffeine levels that can exceed safe limits when consumed in excess.
