Sprite Nutrition Information
Sprite is the most popular lemon-lime soda manufactured by Coca-Cola. It was introduced in 1961 and in 2010, ranks as the No. 4 soft drink in the world. Sprite is sold in more than 190 countries worldwide. Calorie-free options are available to those who prefer drinks without sugar.
Sprite is the most popular lemon-lime soda manufactured by Coca-Cola. It was introduced in 1961 and in 2010, ranks as the No. 4 soft drink in the world. Sprite is sold in more than 190 countries worldwide. Calorie-free options are available to those who prefer drinks without sugar.
Calories
A 12-oz. can of Sprite is considered one serving and contains 140 calories. If you are trying to cut calories, regular soda consumption should be limited since it is easy to ingest too many "liquid calories." Sprite Zero, with no calories, is a good substitute for regular Sprite. If you are on a 2,000 calorie diet, a regular Sprite contains 7 percent of your recommended total daily calorie intake.
Fat and Sodium
Both regular Sprite and Sprite Zero contain no fat, making it a good choice for a low-fat diet. Regular Sprite contains 65 mg of sodium; Sprite Zero is sodium-free. The U.S. Department of Health's Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2005, recommends that most Americans consume less than 2,300 mg of sodium daily. Most people consume far more sodium than they need, placing them at risk of high blood pressure. Sodium is hidden in many processed foods and baked goods.
Sugar and Carbohydrates
Regular Sprite contains 38 g of both sugar and carbohydrates. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), a 12-oz. regular soda contains 8 tsp. of sugar. The AHA suggests that women limit sugar intake to no more than six teaspoons daily, and men exceed no more than nine teaspoons. The sugar-free Sprite Zero is a much better choice.
Other Nutrients
Both regular Sprite and Sprite Zero lack protein and are not significant sources of vitamins A and C, calcium, fiber, or iron. In order to have an adequate daily intake of the variety of vitamins and other nutrients needed for good health, your diet must include several servings of fresh fruits and vegetables every day.
Considerations
Although a regular Sprite can be part of your daily diet, it contains too much sugar for most Americans. If you must consume soda, Sprite Zero is a better nutritional choice. Drinking plenty of water and choosing foods from a healthy mix of fruits and vegetables, lean meats, fish and dairy products will help keep you in optimal health and at a healthy weight.