This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.
There's nothing quite like a refreshing glass of Sprite. The lemon-lime soda beverage has become a popular drink for its sweet and fizzy taste, but health experts say that it's actually responsible for causing negative effects on your body. We took a deep dive into its ingredients list and found that Sprite is made with some unhealthy preservatives that can lead to a slew of health diseases. Here's why you should take a break from Sprite:
[Photos: Shutterstock]
1. There are preservatives in it
Just because Sprite is colorless and caffeine-free doesn't mean that it's a healthy drink. Preservatives like sodium citrate, sodium benzoate and high fructose corn syrup are responsible for its delicious taste.
2. There are carbohydrates in Sprite?
One can of Sprite has 38 grams of carbohydrates, according to its nutrition facts. That's not all; you can also find 38 milligrams of sugar in there, too!
3. Drinking too much Sprite can lead to tooth decay
Excessive citric acid intake can cause tooth enamel erosion, which will eventually lead to tooth decay.
4. Sprite can lead to irritation and hives
Like citric acid, consuming too much sodium benzoate can cause health problems, like irritation in the mouth and hives!
5. It can also cause DNA damage, too!
Sodium benzoate is derived from petroleum, which has been linked to DNA damage and neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
6. The sodium in Sprite isn't good for you either
One can of Sprite contains 65 milligrams of sodium. Consuming an excessive amount of sodium can lead to high blood pressure and other scary health issues.
7. Sprite can even make you gain weight!
Sprite, and soda in general, can lead to weight gain in those who overconsume it. This weight gain can put you at greater risk for developing a wide range of health problems including type 2 diabetes and cancer!
8. Sprite has been linked to gout
Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden swelling, stiffness and burning pain in certain joints, which is caused by having an excessive amount of uric acid in the blood. Yikes!
9. Why drink Sprite when there are healthier options out there?
If it's the fizzy lemon and lime flavor that you crave, know that there are healthier alternatives out there. We love IZZE Sparkling Juice, which is preservatives-free and made without added sugar, caffeine and high-fructose corn syrup.
