Tag: Soda and dehydration

According to the CDC, sugar-sweetened beverages are a primary source of added sugars in the American diet, but many wonder if the liquid content helps with fluid intake. The simple answer to 'does soda pop count as hydration?' is a complex one, with several factors explaining why it is a poor choice for meeting your body's fluid needs.

According to a 2016 study, the cold temperature and carbonation of a beverage can trick your brain into perceiving it as more thirst-quenching than still water. This sensory trick explains why a chilled can of Sprite might feel so satisfying when you're parched, even though its high sugar content works against true, lasting hydration.

While the taste of a cold, bubbly Sprite can feel incredibly refreshing on a hot day, this sensation is often a misleading signal to your brain. Although it is a liquid, the high sugar content in Sprite and other sugary sodas can actually lead to dehydration, not effective rehydration. This article explores why your body reacts this way and what to drink instead for genuine thirst relief.

A standard 12-ounce can of regular soda contains roughly 37 grams of sugar, and when considering the question, will Sprite keep me hydrated, this fact is critically important. While any liquid provides some fluid, the high sugar content in sodas like Sprite can significantly hinder effective hydration and bring unwanted health consequences.

According to the CDC, nearly half of all Americans drink at least one sugary beverage, like pop, on any given day. While it's largely considered a myth that pop can dehydrate you, the truth is more nuanced, requiring a look into its specific ingredients to understand its true effect on hydration.