What Makes MTN Dew Kickstart Unhealthy?
MTN Dew Kickstart is often perceived as a 'better for you' option due to its inclusion of 5% real fruit juice and vitamins B and C. However, this positioning masks several ingredients that can be detrimental to health. A closer look at the nutrition label reveals a different story, with a high concentration of sugars and artificial substances. The combination of these ingredients can lead to energy crashes, weight gain, and other health issues over time.
High Fructose Corn Syrup and Added Sugars
The primary source of sweetness in Kickstart is high fructose corn syrup, which can have significant negative effects on health. The average 16-ounce can contains around 20 grams of total sugar, with 17-19 grams listed as 'added sugars'. For context, the American Heart Association recommends no more than about 25 grams of added sugar per day for women and 38 grams for men. A single can of Kickstart consumes most of a person's daily limit, contributing to high blood pressure, inflammation, weight gain, and an increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
The Impact of Artificial Sweeteners
In addition to high fructose corn syrup, Kickstart also contains artificial sweeteners like acesulfame potassium and sucralose. While these are calorie-free, they come with their own set of health concerns. Some studies on artificial sweeteners suggest they may contribute to metabolic issues, insulin resistance, and alterations in gut health. The inclusion of both sugar and artificial sweeteners is a red flag, as it can confuse the body's metabolic processes and potentially increase cravings for sweet foods.
Synthetic Caffeine and the 'Kick' You Feel
Each 16-ounce can of Kickstart contains approximately 92 mg of caffeine. This is more caffeine than a standard can of Mountain Dew but less than most traditional energy drinks. However, the caffeine in Kickstart is synthetically produced, which is absorbed more quickly by the body than natural caffeine sources like coffee or tea. This can lead to a rapid energy boost followed by a quick 'crash' as the effects wear off. Regular reliance on synthetic caffeine can disrupt sleep patterns and lead to anxiety, restlessness, and increased dependence.
Low Fruit Juice Content and Additives
The claim of '5% fruit juice' is a marketing tactic that gives an illusion of health. This minimal amount of juice offers negligible nutritional benefits compared to drinking actual fruit juice. Kickstart also contains a variety of other additives, including artificial colors like Red 40, natural and artificial flavors, and preservatives like potassium sorbate. These additives raise concerns for some consumers, particularly regarding potential links to behavioral issues in children and broader health implications.
Comparison Table: Kickstart vs. Healthier Alternatives
| Feature | MTN Dew Kickstart (16oz) | Black Coffee (16oz) | Green Tea (16oz) | Fresh Orange Juice (16oz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~80 | ~4 | ~0 | ~224 |
| Added Sugar | ~17-19g | 0g | 0g | 0g (Naturally Occurring) |
| Caffeine | ~92 mg | ~182 mg | ~40-80 mg | 0 mg |
| Artificial Sweeteners | Yes (Sucralose, Ace-K) | No | No | No |
| Synthetic Additives | Yes (Red 40, etc.) | No | No | No |
| Nutritional Value | Minimal (B & C Vitamins) | Antioxidants | Antioxidants, L-Theanine | High (Vitamin C) |
| Energy Boost | Rapid spike and crash | Sustained energy, less crash | Sustained energy, calming | Natural sugars, slower release |
Making a Healthier Choice
Choosing a healthier beverage option over MTN Dew Kickstart is a simple but effective way to improve your overall health. Options like black coffee, green tea, or fresh fruit juice offer a more natural source of energy and nutrients without the risks associated with high sugar intake and artificial additives. Water remains the best choice for hydration and overall well-being. Even switching from a regular soda to Kickstart is not a significant health improvement, and it is far from being a truly healthy drink.
Conclusion
Despite its marketing as an 'enhanced soft drink' with fruit juice and vitamins, MTN Dew Kickstart is ultimately an unhealthy, ultra-processed beverage. Its high sugar content from sources like high fructose corn syrup and the presence of artificial sweeteners and synthetic caffeine can contribute to a range of health problems, including weight gain, metabolic issues, and a reliance on quick energy fixes followed by crashes. For those seeking a healthier morning or midday boost, natural and minimally processed alternatives like coffee, tea, or water are a far better choice. A single can of Kickstart exceeds the recommended daily sugar intake for many people, making it a poor choice for regular consumption.
