How Much Sugar is in Dr. Pepper? Sugar Content

How Much Sugar is in Dr. Pepper? Sugar Content Across Regular, Diet, and Zero-Sugar Varieties

In Texas, the birthplace of Dr. Pepper, residents drink an average of one Dr. Pepper every three days. In Dallas, the corporate headquarters, residents drink an average of 250 bottles annually, and in Waco, the birthplace of the drink, 270 bottles per person per year are consumed.

 

It’s safe to say, Dr. Pepper has some big fans. But is it healthy to drink Dr. Pepper regularly? Not everyone thinks so, in part due to the Dr. Pepper sugar content. So, just how much sugar is in Dr. Pepper? Is diet Dr. Pepper sugar free? Should we think twice about cracking open our next can?

 

In this guide, we’ll explore how much sugar is in a can of Dr. Pepper, and why it’s a problem for your health. The answer might alarm you, but don’t worry - we’ll introduce you to some healthier alternatives that taste so good, you’ll be thrilled to make the switch! 

How Much Sugar is in Dr. Pepper?

So, how much sugar is in Dr. Pepper? Let’s take a look at the Dr. Pepper sugar content, including how much sugar is in diet Dr. Pepper. 

How Much Sugar is in a Can of Dr. Pepper?

So, how much sugar is in a can of Dr. Pepper? A standard 12-ounce can of regular Dr. Pepper contains approximately 40 grams of sugar, or around 10 teaspoons, which is quite a significant amount of sugar and contributes around 150 calories from sugar alone.

 

To put it in context, the American Heart Association recommends a daily sugar intake limit of 36 grams for men and 25 grams for women. So, the high Dr. Pepper sugar content means that just one can already puts you over the limit for the entire day!

 

What about larger bottles? How much sugar in Dr. Pepper 20 oz bottles? A 20 oz bottle of Dr. Pepper contains 64 grams of sugar, or 16 teaspoons. So, even if two people share it, it’s still almost their entire daily recommended intake of sugar. Yikes. 

How Much Sugar is in Diet Dr. Pepper?

Ok, so how much sugar is in diet Dr. Pepper? Is it less than the standard Dr. Pepper sugar content? Is diet Dr. Pepper sugar free? Diet Dr. Pepper contains no sugar, but it’s sweetened with artificial sweeteners. These come with their own set of health issues, which we’ll talk about soon. 

Does Dr. Pepper Have a Lot of Sugar Compared to Other Sodas?

How much sugar is in Dr. Pepper compared to the sugar in soda from other brands? Dr. Pepper has a similar sugar content to other sodas. For instance, the sugar in Coke is about 39 grams per 12-ounce can, while the sugar in Mountain Dew is a bit higher, at around 46 grams. 

 

If you’re interested in learning about the sugar content of your other favorite beverages, check out our guides to the sugar in these drinks: 

 

Should You Be Concerned About the Dr. Pepper Sugar Content?

We’ve already explained that a single can of Dr. Pepper exceed’s the American Heart Association’s daily recommended sugar intake for both men and women. These recommendations were put in place because we’re learning more about the dangers of too much sugar. 

 

Excessive sugar consumption is linked to several health issues, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and dental problems. High-sugar drinks like Dr. Pepper give you a lot of calories without providing any essential nutrients, leading to weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases. 

 

Also, sugary drinks like Dr. Pepper can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, which over time can impair insulin function and increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition with no cure. 

 

And, we can’t forget about our teeth! The bacteria in your mouth feed on sugar, producing acids that can erode tooth enamel. Regular consumption of sugary beverages like Dr. Pepper can increase the risk of dental problems like tooth decay and cavities. 

Is Dr. Pepper Zero Sugar Bad For You?

So, we know how much sugar is in Dr. pepper, which is why many people choose the low or sugar-free options instead. But is Dr. Pepper zero sugar bad for you? It’s sweetened with artificial sweeteners, which have been in the spotlight recently, and not in a good way. 

 

Research indicates that artificial sweeteners may affect metabolism, potentially leading to weight gain and insulin resistance. This can be counterproductive for people using these sweeteners to manage weight or prevent diabetes, or for anyone on a keto diet.

 

Certain artificial sweeteners like aspartame, which is used in both diet Dr. Pepper and Dr. Pepper zero sugar, have even been linked with cancer, and is considered a carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). 

 

Other studies suggest that artificial sweeteners can alter the gut microbiome, the community of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. Disruptions to the gut microbiome have been linked to digestive problems, inflammation, and a weakened immune response.

 

There is also evidence that artificial sweeteners might interfere with appetite regulation. Some studies have found that consuming these sweeteners can increase cravings for sweet, high-calorie foods, potentially leading to overeating and weight gain. 

 

So, is Dr. Pepper zero sugar bad for you? Although it doesn’t contain sugar, it’s hard to call Dr. Pepper zero sugar healthy. The chemicals and artificial sweeteners used to make sugar-free sodas taste good can be quite harmful, and may even be worse for us than sugar. 

Exploring Healthier Drink Alternatives Than Dr. Pepper

If you’ve found yourself reeling at how much sugar in Dr. Pepper 20 oz bottles, you’re not alone! We couldn’t believe it either, which is why we poured our heart and soul into creating delicious drinks that don’t contain shockingly high levels of sugar or nasty artificial sweeteners. 

 

Our Oobli low-sugar lemonade has an amazing, natural, refreshing flavor, but contains just 8 grams of sugar - an incredible 80% less than most other lemonades and sodas. It’s the world’s first craft-brewed low-sugar lemonade with no artificial sweeteners, and it tastes amazing!

 

We also have low-sugar iced tea, available in a variety of thirst-quenching, fruity flavors. With just 7 grams of sugar in each 16-ounce can, our teas have all the flavor and none of the guilt! Plus, they’re packed full of antioxidants, keto-friendly, and great for your gut health. 

 

To really satisfy that sweet tooth, check out our low-sugar chocolate. The sugar in chocolate is normally through the roof, but our high-fiber, vegan-friendly bars contain a fraction of that. With only clean ingredients, no sugar alternatives, this is a treat you can enjoy every day, without the health risks!

Closing Thoughts on the Dr. Pepper Sugar Content

Sugary sodas are a huge contributor to obesity, and Dr. Pepper is no different. The 40 grams of sugar in a single 12-ounce can exceeds the daily intake recommendations of the American Heart Association. Your entire daily sugar intake accounted for, in just one small can! 

 

Is diet Dr. Pepper sugar free? Yes, but it’s manufactured with artificial sweeteners, which have been linked with cancer, heart disease, allergies, mood changes, digestive issues, and other unwanted health issues.
 

Don’t settle for sugary sodas, empty calories, and harmful sweeteners - treat yourself to Oobli and taste the difference! 

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