Coca-Cola Zero, as a healthy version of Coke, has become an attractive drink to reduce sugar intake or control weight.
A 354ml can of Coca-Cola Zero provides:
Calories: 0
Fat: 0g
Protein: 0 g
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 2% of daily value (DV)
Potassium: 2% of DV
From the table above, a can of traditional Coke has about 35 grams of sugar. On the other hand, sweeteners are approved food additives and can be dozens to thousands of times sweeter than sugar. Mixing them together can make the sweetness more effective. The difference is that the sweetener is not absorbed by the body.
Artificial sweeteners and weight loss
To sweeten with zero calories, a sweetener is needed. There is conflicting evidence regarding the use of Coke Zero and other artificially sweetened beverages for weight management. More research is needed to understand the benefits and risks of diet drinks.
Diet soda and tooth erosion
The acidic pH of Coke Zero has been linked to an increased risk of enamel and tooth erosion, although the effect is smaller compared to other acidic drinks.
Coke Zero and Diabetes Risk
Although Coke Zero contains no sugar, its artificial sweeteners are controversial. Still, research on the effects of artificial sweeteners on diabetes risk is mixed, and more research is needed to fully understand the possible link.
Other potential disadvantages
Increased risk of heart disease
An observational study found an association between artificially sweetened beverages and an increased risk of heart disease in women with no history of heart disease.
Increased risk of kidney disease
The high phosphorus content in soda may cause kidney damage. One study found that people who drank seven diet sodas per week doubled their risk of kidney disease.
May change your gut microbiome
Multiple studies have shown that artificially sweetened beverages alter the gut microbiome and lead to poor blood sugar control.
May increase risk of osteoporosis
One study found that daily cola consumption reduced bone mineral density by 3.7-5.4%. Similar results were found for people who drank diet cola drinks.
Is zero-cola harmful to you?
