The Dual Threat to Dental Health: Sugar and Acid
Regular and frequent consumption of MTN Dew is notoriously damaging to teeth, a phenomenon so prevalent it's sometimes referred to as "Mountain Dew mouth". The damage is caused by a potent combination of sugar and acid that attacks tooth enamel.
How Enamel Erosion Occurs
- High Sugar Content: A standard 12-ounce can of regular MTN Dew contains 46 grams of sugar, most of which is high-fructose corn syrup. This feeds the bacteria in your mouth, which then produce harmful acids.
- Citric and Phosphoric Acids: Beyond the acid produced by bacteria, MTN Dew contains citric and phosphoric acids as ingredients. These acids directly attack and soften tooth enamel, leaving teeth vulnerable to decay and cavities.
- Constant Exposure: Many people sip on sodas throughout the day, which continually bathes their teeth in this acidic, sugary liquid, compounding the damage. This prolonged exposure can also lead to tooth sensitivity and yellowing or discoloration.
Metabolic and Weight-Related Health Risks
The high sugar content in MTN Dew, predominantly high-fructose corn syrup, is strongly linked to several serious metabolic and weight-related health problems. Sugary drinks are particularly problematic because they don't trigger the same fullness signals as solid food, leading to an increase in overall calorie consumption.
The Link to Diabetes and Obesity
- Weight Gain and Obesity: The excess calories from sugary beverages are a significant driver of weight gain. The liver converts too much fructose into fat, particularly visceral fat (belly fat), which is linked to metabolic disease.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Regular consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages is a major risk factor for developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Some studies suggest that just one sugary drink per day can significantly increase this risk.
Cardiovascular and Neurological Concerns from Caffeine
MTN Dew contains caffeine, which acts as a central nervous system stimulant. A 12-ounce can has a notable 54 milligrams of caffeine, more than a comparable serving of Coca-Cola. While this provides an energy boost, it can cause adverse effects, especially for sensitive individuals or with high intake.
Common Caffeine-Related Side Effects
- Heart Palpitations: Caffeine can increase heart rate and blood pressure, potentially causing palpitations or a racing heart in some people.
- Anxiety and Restlessness: The stimulant effects can lead to feelings of anxiety, nervousness, and jitters.
- Sleep Disruption: Consuming MTN Dew, especially later in the day, can interfere with sleep patterns and cause insomnia.
Scrutinizing Other Notorious Ingredients
Beyond sugar and caffeine, MTN Dew has contained other controversial ingredients that raise health concerns, some of which are now banned in other countries.
- Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO): Previously used to give the drink its cloudy appearance and keep flavorings suspended, BVO is a flame retardant that has been shown to accumulate in body fat and potentially cause organ damage. It was removed from most versions of MTN Dew in 2014 but its historical use is noteworthy.
- Yellow 5 (Tartrazine): This artificial coloring has been linked to behavioral problems in children, increased allergies, and has been flagged by groups like the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
- Sodium Benzoate: A preservative used in many sodas, sodium benzoate can form benzene (a carcinogen) when combined with vitamin C. While the risk is debated, its presence adds to the overall chemical load of the beverage.
Regular vs. Diet MTN Dew: A Comparison of Side Effects
Switching to Diet MTN Dew might seem like a solution, but it merely trades some risks for others. Both versions carry significant health concerns.
| Feature | Regular MTN Dew | Diet MTN Dew |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar | 46g per 12oz can (High-fructose corn syrup) | Zero sugar (Artificial sweeteners like aspartame) |
| Calories | 170 per 12oz can | Zero calories |
| Dental Erosion | High risk from citric and phosphoric acid + sugar | High risk from citric and phosphoric acid alone |
| Weight Gain | Directly contributes via empty calories and high sugar | Indirectly linked via triggering sugar cravings and potential gut microbiome effects |
| Metabolic Impact | Increases risk of obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes | Potential impact on insulin sensitivity and diabetes risk, though research is mixed |
| Caffeine | 54mg per 12oz can | Contains a similar amount of caffeine, carrying the same stimulant risks |
The Verdict: The Need for Moderation and Alternatives
From dental destruction to metabolic disruption, the side effects of MTN Dew are a direct result of its high concentration of sugar, acids, and stimulants. Both the regular and diet versions present unique and overlapping health risks, meaning neither is a truly healthy choice. The most effective strategy for mitigating these effects is to significantly reduce or eliminate consumption and opt for healthier, hydrating alternatives like water, herbal tea, or sparkling water infused with fruit.
For those struggling to quit, health experts recommend a gradual reduction to avoid caffeine withdrawal symptoms. Replacing one soda per day with water is a great starting point, as it immediately reduces the influx of sugar and acid into your system. You can read more about the specific phenomenon of dental damage from prolonged soda consumption from the Cleveland Clinic.(https://health.clevelandclinic.org/mountain-dew-mouth)
Conclusion
The side effects of MTN Dew range from the visible, like severe tooth decay, to the systemic, such as increased risk of diabetes, obesity, and heart issues. The combination of high sugar, potent acids, and a significant dose of caffeine creates a beverage that offers minimal nutritional value while introducing multiple health hazards. While an occasional treat may pose a low risk, frequent consumption can lead to serious, long-term health problems. Choosing moderation or healthier alternatives is a much better strategy for long-term health.
