Things To Know About “Healthy Coke”

Several clients from Glen Cove, NY, showed me a TikTok video demonstrating how to make healthy coke. In the video, Amanda Jones, the creator, said her Pilates instructor gave her the idea for the drink and that it tastes just like regular coke. It’s made by combining seltzer water with balsamic vinegar. Many, many others disagreed with her and posted videos showing their opinion. While there’s a debate on whether it does taste like coke, with the “healthy coke” alternative losing, let’s look at whether or not it’s healthy!

The ADA—American Dental Association—warns of acidic drinks.

Not only were people outraged, probably because it didn’t taste good, but previous studies by the ADA might negate the benefits of this combination. Seltzer water or sparkling water is “sparkling” because of the bubbles in it. Those bubbles are created by a chemical reaction that forms carbonic acid. Like any acid, it can weaken the tooth enamel. Now add the fact that vinegar is an acid, which regardless of health benefits, can take a toll on tooth enamel. It increases the risk of dental damage. Like salad dressing with vinegar, the damage may be negligible, but you can have too much of a good thing, especially if your teeth are already weak or sensitive.

Can the balsamic vinegar make the drink healthy?

It’s actually better for you than sugary drinks, but not better than putting that vinegar to use as a salad dressing, where you get other nutrients from the vegetables. Just like people with GERD must be careful of the food they eat, especially ones that are acidic, this drink can make the condition worse by irritating the esophagus and stomach. If the vinegar is high quality, it probably has some benefits from antioxidants.

If healthy coke isn’t all that healthy, what is the alternative, besides plain water.

Infused water is one option that many people appreciate. For the healthiest option for your teeth and tummy, don’t add lemon to sparkling water or other high acid fruits or vegetables. Infused water is easy to make, slice up the fruits and vegetables into water, put it in the refrigerator for a few hours and remove the fruit or vegetables to serve. You can make your own delicious recipes and it’s an excellent option for people who simply don’t like plain water.

• How long your teeth stay in contact with an acidic drink determines how badly they are eroded. It’s worse for your teeth to slowly sip “healthy coke” than to drink it relatively quickly.
• Plain water is friendliest to your teeth. The damage from more acidic drinks can be reduced if they’re consumed through a straw, drank in shorter periods of time and if you make sure to wait an hour before brushing your teeth. Rinsing your mouth with plain water after an acidic drink can also help.
• If you do decide “healthy coke” read the label of the balsamic vinegar you use. Some contain added sugar. Most quality balsamic vinegars come with a high price tag and so does better sparkling water, so “healthy coke” may not be healthy for your budget.
• Rather than opting for the latest trend, following a nutritious diet that consists of balanced macronutrients, with little or no added sugar, is the best way to stay healthy.

For more information, contact us today at Garcia Muay Thai