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Mexican Coke, also known as Mexican Coca-Cola, has gained a devoted fan base in the United States. Typically sold in bottles rather than cans, many people believe it is healthier than the domestic version because it is made with real sugar. But is that actually the case? We consulted nutritionist Tara Collingwood, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD/N, ACSM-CPT, a Board Certified Sports Dietitian and co-author of the Flat Belly Cookbook for Dummies, to discuss the primary differences and explore what truly occurs when you consume Mexican Coca-Cola.
Your Body Processes Cane Sugar and HFCS Nearly Identically
“Mexican Coca-Cola uses cane sugar as opposed to high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS), which is commonly used in American Coca-Cola. Although that seems to be a significant difference, nutritionally, cane sugar and HFCS are almost identical in how they are processed by your body,” Collingwood explains.
Your Liver Handles Them the Same Way
Collingwood notes that cane sugar, also known as sucrose, consists of 50% glucose and 50% fructose, whereas HFCS contains 45% glucose and 55% fructose. “There isn’t much of a difference,” she states. “Both are composed of glucose and fructose, and your liver processes the fructose the same way, regardless of the source. Overconsumption of fructose can lead to increased triglycerides, promote fat build-up in the liver, and heighten the risk of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.”
But, People Maintain the Taste of Mexican Coke Is Better
Why do people think Mexican Coke is better? Taste, Collingwood points out. “Some say it tastes ‘cleaner’ or less cloying. This is subjective and more about preference than health,” Collingwood says.
There Is Also a “Natural” Halo Surrounding It
There is also the “natural” halo surrounding it. “Cane sugar has a more wholesome image than HFCS, partly because of food marketing and partly because of the backlash against HFCS in the early 2000s,” says Collingwood.
And, It Is Packaged in Glass
The glass bottles are also a selling point for some. “Mexican Coke is often in glass, which some associate with purity and a more nostalgic experience,” says Collingwood.
But, Added Sugar Is Added Sugar
What to consider before choosing between them? Firstly, added sugar is added sugar. “Whether it’s HFCS or cane sugar, the health risks are the same: weight gain, increased risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and dental decay,” says Collingwood.
Portion Size Matters More Than the Sugar Source
Next, portion size matters more than the sugar source. “A 12-ounce Mexican Coke still contains about 39 grams of sugar,” Collingwood states.
It Is an Occasional Treat
Lastly, look at it as an occasional treat. “If you’re choosing between the two, do so based on taste, not health. But neither should be a regular beverage,” says Collingwood.