Pepsi’s New Fat-Fighting Soda Hits the Shelves in Japan

Pepsi has a new product called Pepsi Special, which they claim helps fend off fat. Their “special ingredient” is dextrin, which is a dietary fiber found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. It is water soluble and is also found in some fiber supplements. The drink is claimed to be a “healthy” soda.

The manufacturer of Pepsi Special claims it suppresses the absorption of fat and hinders the rise of triglycerides after a meal. This new soda has received the label “FOSHU” in Japan, a government designation that stands for “Food for Specified Health Uses.” Products are labeled this way to help people who want to take control of their health. If Pepsi Special is brought to the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will have to assess their health claims through studies and will need proof that these claims are relevant and not deceptive.

It is frightening how manufacturers can actually market products like soda to be healthy and that supposedly have positive effects on your body. Manufacturers are always looking to make their products healthier than their competition in order to boost sales and profit. It is important to know whether products which claim to be “healthy” actually have the scientific proof to support such claims. As a consumer who cares about your health, you must be smart and question the ingredients you are unsure about that are added to foods that claim to increase their nutritive value or to have other health benefits.

Fiber keeps your digestive system functioning, and may lower your risk of heart disease. Unlike carbohydrates, fats, and protein, your body cannot digest fiber, so it is not broken down or absorbed. Dietary fiber helps move things along in the digestive tract, promoting regularity, decreasing the risk of GI symptoms and diseases and is responsible for the fullness you get when eating fiber rich foods.

Please be aware that adding dextrin to soda does not make the soda healthy. It still contains ingredients like high fructose corn syrup and sugar, which can contribute to obesity and diabetes. It is not a good idea to get your fiber from a bottle of this new soda. Instead, your fiber consumption should be from a well-balanced diet which includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. If you are consuming enough of these foods, you shouldn’t have an issue with your fiber intake.

There are a lot of ways to make a tastier beverage without overdoing it on the sugar. Slice fruit into a pitcher of water and let it infuse the water with natural fruit flavors. You can also freeze berries and use them as ice cubes in your water for a nice added sweetness. If it’s carbonation you crave, add a splash of fruit juice to seltzer–try cherry juice with a twist of lime…its delicious! Making your own iced tea is also a calorie free option. There are so many types of teas to choose from, your taste-buds will never get bored. Add some natural lemon juice or mint to make it even better!

What is your opinion on this new soda that claims to be healthy?