Effects of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar Consumption on Urinary Metabolites in Healthy Adults

Consumption of beverages containing non-nutritive sweeteners has increased worldwide, but limited information is available regarding the short-term urinary excretion of acesulfame potassium (Ace-K) and the acute metabolic response following consumption of commercially available beverages. This study investigates the urinary pharmacokinetics of Ace-K and the acute urinary metabolomic response after consumption of 500 mL of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar in healthy adults. Participants complete two study arms under free-living conditions: Coca-Cola Zero Sugar and still water (control), separated by a one-month washout period. Urine samples are collected before beverage consumption and repeatedly over the subsequent 24 hours. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR) spectroscopy is used to quantify Ace-K and other urinary metabolites. The study aims to determine the urinary appearance and elimination kinetics of Ace-K and to identify metabolic changes associated with Coca-Cola Zero Sugar consumption compared with water.

Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy adults aged 18 to 60 years * Able and willing to provide written informed consent * Willing to consume 500 mL of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar and 500 mL of still water during separate study periods * Willing to collect urine samples before and during the 24 hours after each intervention according to the study instructions * Willing to avoid foods and beverages containing non-nutritive sweeteners for 48 hours before each study period Exclusion Criteria: * Younger than 18 years or older than 60 years * Current smoker * Known kidney disease or metabolic disease * Regular use of prescription medications * Use of antibiotics in last 3 months * Consumption of foods or beverages containing non-nutritive sweeteners within 48 hours before either study period * Unable or unwilling to comply with the study procedures or urine collection schedule