What Registered Dietitians Want You to Know About Dirty Soda, #MomTok’s Favorite Drink

Thanks to #MomTok and Hulu’s “The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives,” the sweet, caffeinated drink called “dirty soda” is going viral with millions of views and likes on TikTok.

Junk soda is nothing new, but many believe Mormons are to thank for its rise in popularity. Previously, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints prohibited its followers from drinking alcohol or caffeinated beverages. But that all changed in 2012, when the church clarified that its followers could still drink caffeinated beverages.

Now, influencers and celebrities alike have jumped on the junk soda bandwagon. But what exactly is baking soda—and is it worth trying? Registered dietitians share their honest thoughts on unhealthy soda cravings and offer recommendations for trying the viral drink if you choose.

Dirty soda is a drink that combines soda (usually cola) with milk or heavy cream and sweet syrup. “This produces a sweet, cloudy drink that’s almost reminiscent of 20th-century New York City eggnog,” Michelle Rauch, MSc, RDN, said. Heath.

According to Rauch, baking soda makes for great coffee as well as great food—which may check two boxes for Mormons who don’t drink caffeinated beverages and alcohol.

The drinks are sold at soda shops like Swig and Sodalicious, which have been popular in Utah—an area with a large Mormon population—for years, and are now expanding across the US, making Baking soda is widespread and readily available.

People have also taken to mixing up their own versions of dirty soda and sharing them on social media.

While junk sodas may sound appealing to some, they are not healthy or nutritious drinks.

“Soda and sweet syrups are high in sugar and calories while heavy cream adds a lot of fat,” says Merav Diamant, RD, a nutritionist for health and performance. he said. Good health.

Although nutrients can be obtained through the addition of fresh fruit, which can provide certain vitamins and antioxidants, “this small benefit is overshadowed by the possible harm of other ingredients,” Diamant added.

A diet high in sugar is linked to many health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Regular use of sugary drinks provides a large number of calories without the feeling of fullness and satiety. Research also shows that people tend to underestimate the calories in their drinks, especially when it comes to drinks with additives.

Even choosing sugar-free sodas is not without health risks due to the addition of artificial sweeteners. One study found that people who drank at least one artificial drink a day tripled their risk of developing ischemic stroke or dementia compared to those who drank less than one per day. a week.

Julie Pace, RDN, nutritionist and owner of Core Nutrition Health and Wellness, recommends avoiding soda, even sugar-free versions, “since artificial sweeteners are associated with an increased risk of dementia, stroke and digestive problems.”

When it comes to other caffeinated drinks on the market, soda pop has more sugar, calories and fat than regular soda due to the addition of cream and sweet syrups. . “Compared to energy drinks, they contain less stimulants like caffeine and may have comparable or higher levels of sugar and fat,” Diamant said.

If you’re curious about Dirty Soda, experts say there are swaps you can make to create a healthier alternative.

Roasted seltzers like LaCroix or Spindrift make a great fizzy and fruity base, according to Diamant. Then you can spread on half and half cream, coconut milk or oat milk. Rauch also recommends trying flavored protein shakes instead of coffee.

Adding fresh fruits and herbs or mixing in 100% fruit purees can also add a healthy element to your drink. This version leaves room for creativity and is low in sugar and high in fat while still getting the hang of junk soda.

As for drinking the real thing, occasionally enjoying a dirty soda—store-bought or homemade—is unlikely to cause any real harm. But experts say to be mindful of how often you drink soft drinks and to do so in moderation and as part of a balanced, nutritious diet.

Instead of drinking it as your regular drink, see it for what it is—it’s delicious,” Heather Lieber, MS, RD, Goldi nutrition consultant, advises. “If you want a caffeine boost but religiously abstain from coffee and tea, try sugar-free sparkling water with added caffeine for a simpler, health-oriented drink more.”