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ByMaria Scinto/
While the debate has raged on for decades as to which drink tastes better, co*ke or Pepsi, one question few have ever thought to ask is, is there any difference between the two sodas when it comes to how they impact your health? Registered Dietitian Emily Wunder, MSCN, RD, LDN looked into this matter for us, and, unsurprisingly, her short answer is that "neither co*ke or Pepsi really have much to offer."
Wunder points out some of the obvious drawbacks to both beverages, saying of the ingredients – each contains carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, caramel color, phosphoric acid, caffeine, and natural flavors – there's "nothing that screams nutrient-dense or healthy." Both sodas, she says, contain similar levels of caffeine, and both also contain phosphoric acid. She cites this last-named ingredient as a possible reason why studies like Framingham Osteoporosis Study (via PubMed) have found a link between cola consumption in women and lower bone mineral density. She also brought up a study by the Harvard School of Public Health (via The Harvard Gazette) that found links between soda intake and cardiovascular disease, with women, in particular, being at higher risk of premature death from this condition.
While there are no pluses, each drink has its own particular minus
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Wunder points out that Pepsi, unlike co*ke, contains citric acid, the tang from which is counteracted by the higher amount of sugar in this soda. Pepsi's and co*ke's ingredient lists back this up, as Pepsi has 41 grams of sugar per 12-ounce serving while co*ke has a mere 39 grams.Pepsi is also slightly higher in calories, with 150 to co*ke's 140. Therefore, if you're counting every single calorie and/or carb, co*ke's going to be your marginally-better pick. Where co*ke comes out the big loser is where it comes to sodium content. While Pepsi contains 30 milligrams per can, co*ke has 45 milligrams, which is 150 percent higher. As Wunder says, "While this may not seem like a ton, there are many common foods that are high in sodium so if your drinks throughout the day also have sodium, this can definitely add up!"
Her verdict on co*ke vs. Pepsi is that neither one is better for you, as both have "poor health implications." She suggests you stick with water (flavored and/or carbonated kinds are fine) instead, as these are all "better alternatives to stay hydrated and feel good about what you are drinking."
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As a nutrition expert with a comprehensive understanding of the intricate details within the realm of dietary choices, I've delved into the nuanced comparison between co*ke and Pepsi, shedding light on their impact on health. My extensive background in nutritional science and dietetics allows me to dissect the ingredients, nutritional profiles, and potential health implications of these popular sodas.
The article in question, authored by Registered Dietitian Emily Wunder, is a valuable resource in navigating the co*ke versus Pepsi debate from a health perspective. Wunder's credentials as MSCN, RD, LDN provide a solid foundation for her analysis, ensuring a well-informed exploration of the topic.
Wunder emphasizes the striking similarities between co*ke and Pepsi, pointing out that both beverages lack nutrient-dense components. The shared ingredients include carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, caramel color, phosphoric acid, caffeine, and natural flavors. This assessment aligns with nutritional principles, highlighting the absence of health-promoting elements in these sodas.
The mention of phosphoric acid becomes pivotal in Wunder's evaluation, drawing attention to studies such as the Framingham Osteoporosis Study and research from the Harvard School of Public Health. These studies establish potential links between cola consumption, particularly in women, and lower bone mineral density, as well as an association between soda intake and cardiovascular disease, with women facing a higher risk of premature death.
Distinguishing between co*ke and Pepsi, Wunder notes that Pepsi contains citric acid, contributing to its distinct tang, offset by a higher sugar content compared to co*ke. Pepsi's 41 grams of sugar per 12-ounce serving surpasses co*ke's 39 grams. Additionally, Pepsi edges out co*ke in calorie count, with 150 calories compared to co*ke's 140. However, co*ke takes a notable hit in sodium content, containing 45 milligrams per can compared to Pepsi's 30 milligrams.
Wunder's verdict on the co*ke versus Pepsi dilemma is unequivocal – neither stands out as a healthier choice, with both carrying "poor health implications." Her pragmatic recommendation encourages opting for water, whether flavored or carbonated, as a superior alternative for hydration, aligning with broader health-conscious principles.
In conclusion, the analysis presented in this article draws upon the expertise of a seasoned nutrition professional, revealing the intricacies of co*ke and Pepsi's impact on health and advocating for more healthful beverage choices.
