Dirty Sodas Gain Popularity Despite Health Warnings From Medical Experts
Dirty sodas—soft drinks mixed with syrups, creamers, and other sweet ingredients—are growing in popularity at major chains and specialty shops, delivering 250-400 calories and 55-70 grams of sugar per serving. The trend originated in Utah around 2010 at Swig and has been amplified by social media and TV shows. Medical experts warn the drinks pose significant health risks including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, particularly for those with insulin resistance or prediabetes.
Dirty sodas, a beverage trend that combines soft drinks with added syrups, creamers, fruit juices, and garnishes, are raising health concerns among medical professionals. A single serving can contain 250-400 calories and 55-70 grams of sugar—often exceeding the American Heart Association's daily added sugar limit. The trend originated in Utah at Swig, a specialty soda shop founded in 2010, where it gained traction among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints seeking non-caffeinated alternatives. The drinks have since gone mainstream, appearing on menus at McDonald's, Taco Bell, Sonic, Dunkin, and in products from major brands like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo. Medical experts warn that the combination of rapidly absorbed sugar and cream can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, increasing risks of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and dementia, with particular danger for those with insulin resistance or prediabetes.
What different sources said
- Fox NewsRight
Dirty soda drinks are everywhere, but doctors warn of health risks: 'Metabolic disaster'
- New York PostRight
Dirty soda drinks might be doing you dirty as doctors warn of health risks: ‘Metabolic disaster’
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