If you've ever had a small Mountain Dew, you know how deliciously refreshing it can be. But have you ever wondered how many calories are in the little can of goodness?

Surprisingly, a small Mountain Dew, which is a 20 oz serving, has a calorie count of 270. That equates to almost 14% of your daily recommended calorie intake in one drink.

In this article, we'll explore the calorie count and impact of small Mountain Dew and provide some low-calorie alternatives for those who still want to enjoy a fizzy drink without the extra calories.

What is a small Mountain Dew?

A small Mountain Dew is a 20 oz serving of the popular carbonated soft drink that is sold in many convenience stores, vending machines, and fast food restaurants. It is often a favorite among soda drinkers due to its distinct citrus flavor and crisp, refreshing taste.

Calorie count of a small Mountain Dew

As mentioned earlier, a small Mountain Dew has a calorie count of 270. This calorie count is quite high, making it an unhealthy choice for those who are trying to watch their calorie intake. The high sugar content of the drink contributes to its high calorie count. This amount of sugar can lead to an increase in blood sugar levels and can contribute to weight gain if consumed regularly.

Why is a small Mountain Dew high in calories?

A small Mountain Dew is high in calories due to its high sugar content. One 20 oz serving contains about 77 grams of sugar, which is a significant amount. The sugar is what gives Mountain Dew its sweet, citrus flavor. However, consuming too much sugar can have negative health effects such as weight gain, increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.

How many calories are in a can of Mountain Dew?

A standard 12 oz can of Mountain Dew contains about 170 calories. While still considered high in calories, it has significantly less than the 20 oz serving. However, it's still important to watch your intake of sugary drinks like Mountain Dew to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Alternative low-calorie beverages

If you're looking for a low-calorie alternative to Mountain Dew, there are plenty of options available. Flavored seltzers and sparkling waters are a great choice, as they have the fizz and flavor of soda without the added calories and sugar. Additionally, unsweetened iced tea or lemonade can be a refreshing and low-calorie option during the warmer months.

What is the recommended daily calorie intake?

The recommended daily calorie intake varies based on your age, gender, height, weight, and activity level. However, on average, adults should aim to consume between 1,500 - 2,000 calories per day. It's important to note that these are just recommendations and may vary based on personal lifestyle and health factors.

Calories in popular fast food drinks

Many fast food restaurants offer a variety of sugar-laden beverages that can pack on the calories quickly. For example, a large Coca-Cola at McDonald's contains 300 calories, and a large sweet tea from Chick-Fil-A has 240 calories. It's important to read the nutritional information of your favorite beverages and make informed choices if you're trying to maintain a healthy diet.

The impact of high calorie drinks on health

Consuming too many high calorie drinks like Mountain Dew can have negative effects on your health. Regular consumption of sugary drinks has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health conditions. It's important to be mindful of your beverage choices and opt for low-calorie options whenever possible to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

How to burn off the calories in a small Mountain Dew

If you've already consumed a small Mountain Dew and want to burn off the calories, there are plenty of exercises you can do. Cardio exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming can burn a significant amount of calories. Additionally, strength training exercises can help build muscle and increase your metabolism, helping you burn calories even at rest.

How to reduce calorie intake while still enjoying Mountain Dew

If you're a fan of Mountain Dew but want to reduce your calorie intake, there are a few strategies you can try. First, you can dilute your Mountain Dew with water to decrease the sugar and calorie content. Another option is to switch to a diet or zero-calorie version of Mountain Dew, which contains no sugar or calories. It's important to note that consuming artificial sweeteners can have negative health effects, so it's best to limit your intake and opt for low-calorie options whenever possible.