The Coke versus Diet Coke debate is one of those random arguments that somehow always comes up during school. It is not super serious but people definitely have strong opinions.
A lot of students like Coke because it tastes sweeter, stronger and original. Some students say it tastes better and tastes like more of an actual treat. It is something people grab when they just want something good and don’t really think about what’s actually going into their body.
OHS junior Jacob Wilson said, “I like regular Coke more because you can’t beat that classic Coke taste.” Wilson adds, “I also love Gatorade because it’s good to hydrate before my sports, but a Coke now and then is mint.”
Diet Coke has some benefits but they are not perfect. It still has caffeine, so you can get that little energy boost without the sugar crash that comes from regular sugar loaded pop. Some people like this when they have a long day ahead of them. It is not a healthy drink but rather a better alternative compared to regular pop.
OHS junior Sudeysi Ismail said, “I like to drink Diet Coke especially when I get Chipotle.” Ismail adds, “I would rather drink Diet Coke because it has less sugar and I breakout when I drink sugar loaded pop.”
For athletes, pop is one of the worst things they can have before a big competition especially when it comes to muscles. The sugar in pop can get a quick spike or high energy but then have a crash, which can leave one’s muscles feeling tired or less responsive during a game or practice.
It also does not hydrate your muscles well, and since muscles need water and electrolytes to work properly, that can lead to quicker fatigue or even increase the chance of cramping.
Even Diet Coke or other diet sodas are not ideal before activity. While they don’t have the sugar, it can still make you feel slightly dehydrated or bloated. This can affect how comfortable and ready your muscles feel.
OHS junior Micah Gentz said, “Champions are built on sleep, water and hard work…. not pop.” Gentz adds, “I’m a Cross Country runner and I depend on endurance, hydration and steady energy and those are three things that pop works against. The sugar and carbonation can leave runners feeling sluggish instead of strong when every mile counts.”
In the end whether it is Coke or Diet Coke, it really comes down to personal choice. But when it comes to sports and performance, what someone picks to drink can make more of a difference than people think.
