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As demand for sugar-free soft drinks continues to grow, many consumers are turning to products such as Cola Zero in the belief that they are making a healthier choice. Nutrition experts, however, caution that the drink’s ingredients may still pose health concerns and should be consumed in moderation.
Growing Popularity of Zero-Sugar Drinks
The beverage market has seen a significant shift toward zero-sugar products in recent years. While these drinks eliminate traditional sugar, their ingredient lists remain remarkably similar to those of regular cola. Cola Zero typically contains water, carbon dioxide, caramel coloring (E150d), acidity regulators such as phosphoric acid (E338) and sodium citrate, natural flavorings, caffeine, and artificial sweeteners.
Health experts emphasize that removing sugar does not automatically make a beverage healthy, particularly when other additives remain unchanged.
Phosphoric Acid May Damage Teeth
One of the key ingredients responsible for cola’s distinctive taste is phosphoric acid. Manufacturers use the acid not only to create the drink’s sharp flavor but also because it may enhance the perceived effects of caffeine.
Analyses suggest that one liter of cola contains approximately 0.8 grams of pure phosphoric acid. Dental professionals warn that the acid can attack tooth enamel shortly after consumption, potentially increasing the risk of erosion over time.
Caffeine levels in major cola brands are relatively similar. A 200-milliliter serving of Coca-Cola, Coca-Cola Zero, Pepsi, and Pepsi Max contains around 20 milligrams of caffeine, while the same amount of Coca-Cola Light or Pepsi Light contains approximately 24 milligrams.
Concerns Over Artificial Sweeteners
Instead of sugar, Zero and Light beverages rely on sweeteners such as aspartame and acesulfame-K. Cola Zero also contains cyclamate, which contributes to its flavor profile and distinguishes it from many Light products.
Some manufacturers have experimented with stevia-based alternatives, including Fritz Cola Stevia and Coca-Cola Zero Stevia. However, stevia has not gained widespread popularity in Germany, largely because of its distinctive taste.
While excessive sugar consumption is associated with tooth decay, obesity, and fatty liver disease, critics argue that artificial sweeteners should not necessarily be viewed as a healthier substitute.
According to findings cited by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), aspartame is composed of phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and methanol. Some studies and reports have linked long-term consumption to symptoms such as anxiety, dizziness, memory problems, and digestive issues potentially related to changes in gut bacteria. Researchers note that gut health may recover within weeks or months after discontinuing consumption.
At the same time, both aspartame and acesulfame-K are currently approved for human consumption in Europe and are considered safe within established intake limits.
WHO Advises Caution
Although regulatory authorities permit the use of artificial sweeteners, the World Health Organization (WHO) has advised caution regarding their routine use. The organization has warned that non-sugar sweeteners may not provide long-term benefits for weight control and could be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Animal studies have also suggested that exposure to acesulfame-K during pregnancy may increase the likelihood of obesity in offspring. Some research further indicates that high consumption of artificial sweeteners may be linked to a greater risk of stroke and reduced longevity.
In addition, a study from York University found evidence that sweeteners such as aspartame and acesulfame-K may stimulate cravings for sweet foods, potentially contributing to overeating and weight gain rather than preventing it.
Healthier Daily Alternatives
Nutrition experts recommend choosing water, mineral water, unsweetened tea, or diluted fruit juice spritzers as healthier everyday beverages. For consumers seeking a caffeine boost, cold-brew coffee may offer an alternative without the additives commonly found in soft drinks.
While Cola Zero and other sugar-free colas can help reduce sugar intake, specialists stress that they should be regarded as occasional treats rather than daily staples. The absence of sugar does not automatically make a drink beneficial for overall health, and moderation remains the key recommendation.
- source: oe24.at/picture: pixabay.com
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