Thanks to its refreshing and moisturizing power, Aquarius has become an emblematic drink for many athletes. However, its contribution of sugar does not seem to convince the majority, so Aquarius Zero intends to please the rest of its consumers. It’s still available in lemon and orange flavors, but will it be healthier than the original?
This refreshing drink without gas has been considered a perfect isotonic for athletes. It does not need much more presentation, because if it has not been consumed for sports, we have done it for gastroenteritis. However, its new version seems to have improved all the nutritional problems that sugar brought. Can it be consumed at any time?
No sugar or calories
That it does not have added sugars and that it provides only 1 calorie may be the perfect claim to recommend this drink. However, its components warn that it is not just water. The list of ingredients is: «water, acidity regulators: E-330 and E-576, flavor enhancers: sodium chloride, potassium phosphate and calcium phosphate, sweeteners: E-950, E-955 and aspartame, stabilizers: E-414 and E-445 and aromas«. It contains a source of phenylalanine which is aspartame. In principle, it should not cause any health risk, but it should be warned for people with phenylketonuria.
As for the nutritional values, for every 100 milliliters of Aquarius Zero we find:
- Energy value: 1 calorie
- Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Of which sugars: 0 grams
- Protein: 0 grams
- Salt: 0.05 grams
- Zinc: 0.8 milligrams
Although the nutritional values may make us think that we are drinking water with sweeteners, it is not entirely recommended. Up to six different chemicals are included to correct acidity, sweeten and stabilize. It is not very healthy compared to water, although it can be a different option to drink on an occasional basis. In the same way that other soft drinks with zero sugar are taken, such as Coca-Cola Zero, Pepsi Max or Tonica Zero.
Aquarius vs Aquarius Zero
To compare both soft drinks, it is interesting to know the ingredients of the classic Aquarius. Taking the same lemon flavored version as an example, the ingredients are: «water, sugar, acidifiers: citric acid and malic acid, flavor enhancers: sodium chloride, potassium phosphate and calcium phosphate, acidity regulator: sodium citrate, antioxidant ascorbic acid, stabilizers: E-414 and E-445, zinc gluconate, sweeteners: sucralose and acesulfame K, natural lemon flavorings and other natural flavors«.
In Aquarius Zero sugar and acidulants have been eliminated, although the sucralose content is maintained. However, having only sweeteners for flavor, the calorie content is much lower (18 calories vs. 1 calorie). Remember that sweeteners or polyalcohols do not contain calories.
In general, the sugar-free version is healthier and contains the same flavor as the originals. In the case of drinking this drink for leisure, it is recommended to choose the Zero option. However, at certain times (such as after a long bike ride or long distance run) it may be a good idea to take regular Aquarius to help restore energy quickly.