7 BETTER THAN Soda Alternatives
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted July 11, 2024
Some folks may be tired of hearing me say soda is the devil, but I’m going to repeat it anyway because it is.
After all, soda is stuffed with harmful, inflammatory sugar. And if there’s one change you can make that will have a HUGE impact on your health, it’s swearing off the sweet stuff.
But I get it. Sometimes, plain water just doesn’t cut it. You want something a bit more… well… exciting.
So, what can you drink instead of soda? Keep reading for some refreshing and delicious options…
Following are SEVEN soda alternatives that can help you kick your pop habit once and for all.
- Infused water: Transform plain water into a refreshing treat by adding slices of fruits, vegetables, or herbs. Try combinations like lemon and mint, cucumber and basil, or strawberry and orange. Not only does this make water more appealing, but it also provides subtle flavors and potential health benefits from the added ingredients.
- Unsweetened iced tea: Brew your favorite tea (black, green, or herbal) and chill it for a cool, sugar-free beverage. You can experiment with different tea blends to find your perfect flavor. Mint, pomegranate, and iced Earl Grey all pack a punch of flavor. If you need a touch of sweetness, consider adding a small amount of honey or stevia.
- Sparkling water with a splash of juice: Mix carbonated water with a small amount of 100 percent fruit juice for a fizzy treat. This gives you the satisfying bubbles of soda with a fraction of the sugar. Try different juice combinations like cranberry-lime or apple-pear for variety.
- Kombucha: This fermented tea drink offers probiotics and a tangy flavor. It’s slightly effervescent and comes in various flavors. While it does contain some sugar, it’s typically much less than soda. Be sure to check labels, as sugar content can vary between brands.
- Coconut water: Rich in electrolytes, coconut water is a natural way to hydrate, especially after exercise. Choose unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars. Some people initially find the taste unusual, so start by mixing it with regular water.
- Green juice: Packed with vitamins and minerals, green juices are a great way to get your veggies. Make your own to control the ingredients, or look for low-sugar options if buying pre-made. Common ingredients include kale, spinach, cucumber, celery, and green apple.
- Flavored seltzer water: Enjoy the fizz without the sugar or artificial sweeteners. Many brands offer natural flavors like lime, grapefruit, or berry. This is an excellent option for those who crave the carbonation of soda.
Remember, the key to successfully replacing soda is finding alternatives that you genuinely enjoy.
Don’t be afraid to experiment. Over time, your taste buds will adjust, and you’ll no longer crave the intense sweetness of soda.
P.S. Detox your drinking water with a microplastics purge.
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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