wildwonder vs. Diet Soda

Among the effervescent drinks on the market, wildwonder has become a welcomed addition. Between its bubbles, hint of sweetness, and natural ingredients, it is becoming a favorite in many households- and for good reason. However, since it is both bubbly and sweet like the OG diet soda choices, you may be wondering what makes wildwonder different than a classic Diet Coke or Pepsi. After all, they do have some stark similarities. But is one a better choice than the other? 

This article is going to explain exactly how wildwonder and diet soda differ, with some fun nutrition facts along the way. Keep reading to learn all about how wildwonder vs. diet soda stack up against each other. 

What is wildwonder?

Wildwonder is a brand that crafts functional and flavorful beverages inspired by the founder's grandmother. They are bubbly and sweet (but not too sweet) and have unique ingredients that supports gut health. 

Wildwonder drinks start with a base of freshly brewed ingredients, which can include turmeric root, hibiscus, ginger, or rose petals. They also include a variety of 100% juices or purees, like passion fruit, guava, strawberry juice, and lemon juice. 

Each wildwonder drink also contains the following ingredients:

Agave Nectar

Agave nectar is a natural sweetener derived from the sap of the agave plant, primarily found in the volcanic soils of Mexico. It's prized for its fructose content, which is higher than that of glucose, providing a sweeter taste with less quantity required. Agave nectar boasts a lower glycemic index compared to regular sugar, making it a more favorable option for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Furthermore, agave nectar contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium, adding some nutritional value to its sweetening properties.

Jerusalem Artichoke

Jerusalem artichoke, also known as sunchokes, is a tuber vegetable renowned for its nutty flavor and crunchiness. Rich in iron, potassium, and especially inulin—a type of prebiotic fiber—Jerusalem artichokes are excellent for digestive health. The inulin aids in the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

Chicory Root Inulin

Chicory root inulin is a naturally occurring prebiotic fiber found in the chicory plant. Unlike other carbohydrates, inulin is not digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Instead, it travels to the lower gut, where it feeds beneficial gut bacteria, thereby supporting digestive health, enhancing calcium absorption, and potentially aiding in blood sugar management. 

Monk Fruit Extract

Monk fruit extract, derived from a plant native to southeast Asia, has gained popularity as a natural sweetener. As a small, round fruit native to Southeast Asia. It's celebrated for its natural sweetness, which comes from unique antioxidants called mogrosides, making it a popular sugar substitute without the calories. This makes it a favored choice for those watching their sugar intake or calorie consumption. Bonus? Since it comes from plants, it is a natural sweetener that is free from anything artificial — which is a concern for many who are leaning on sugar alternatives. 

Live Probiotics

Live probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts, particularly beneficial for your digestive system. Often referred to as "good" or "friendly" bacteria, they help maintain the health of the gut microbiome, which plays a critical role in digestion, immune function, and possibly even mental health. 

What is Diet Soda?

Diet soda is a carbonated beverage that offers a sweet taste similar to that of regular soda, but without the calories and sugar. It achieves this by using artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame, sucralose, or saccharin, instead of sugar or corn syrup. 

Certain diet sodas can also contain:

Caramel Color

Caramel color is a food coloring that gives colas their characteristic amber or brown hues. Despite its widespread use, concerns regarding its health effects have emerged, particularly focusing on a compound known as 4-methylimidazole (4-MEI) found in certain types of caramel color. Studies in animals have suggested that high levels of 4-MEI may lead to an increased risk of cancer, raising questions about the implications of long-term consumption of beverages containing caramel color. 

Citric Acid

Citric acid acts as a natural preservative and flavor enhancer in many soft drinks. Despite its widespread use and natural origins, the health implications of consuming citric acid, particularly in sodas, have been a topic of debate. Excessive intake may be linked to dental erosion due to its acidic nature. Additionally, for individuals with sensitive digestive systems, high amounts of citric acid may exacerbate gastrointestinal issues. 

Phosphoric Acid

Phosphoric acid in soda serves as a flavor enhancer and a preservative, giving some soft drinks their tangy taste and helping maintain their shelf life. However, consuming beverages high in phosphoric acid has been linked to lower bone density and dental health concerns in some cases. 

Wildwonder vs. Diet Soda

Both wildwonder and diet soda are lower in calories and sugar than regular soda and both can satisfy a sweet tooth. But if you are looking for a drink that is free from artificial ingredients, contains both pre and probiotics for gut health support, and natural ingredients like agave nectar, wildwonder will be your best bet. 

Furthermore, Wildwonder’s commitment to using organic and non-GMO ingredients contrasts sharply with many diet sodas' reliance on chemical concoctions designed to mimic natural flavors. This makes Wildwonder a holistic choice for those looking to nourish their bodies and enjoy a refreshing, flavorful drink without the potential drawbacks associated with diet sodas.

About the Author

Meet Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD, CLEC, CPT, wildwonder's new resident dietician. Lauren is a multiple award-winner, book author, and freelance writer. She acts as an expert resource for outlets that include EatThis.com, Well + Good, and MindBodyGreen, leaning on her ability to interpret the medical literature to benefit her readers.