Why You Should Stop Drinking Soda

Why You Should Stop Drinking Soda? The sugar, the calories, the chemicals and artificial flavors. Put down the pop and step away. Americas are avid soda drinkers, and we can only blame ourselves. Did you know a can of soda have 10 tablespoons of sugar? No wonder people are addicted. Soda has countless downfalls and you would be better of avoiding it. I'm not going to go on a rant and lecture you on why you need to avoid it (you can read why in this article). Instead I will give you alternatives. Why You Should Stop Drinking Soda? Less sugary, healthier alternatives. Before I begin I would like to say that I believe 90% of daily beverages should be water. There is nothing that can beat water. But for those moments when a soda or sugary juice seems like the only possible option here are a few alternatives to consider:

Fruit Infused Water

Flavored waters have been popping up all over the place, but many still contain sugar or artificial sweeteners. A healthier choice is natural flavoring: Just add slices of your favorite fruits and veggies — lemons, oranges, watermelon, cucumber, mint, or limes — to a pitcher of ice-cold water for a refreshing and flavorful drink. Another great option is to put chopped-up fruit in an ice cube tray, add water, and freeze. Place these colorful fruit cubes in your beverage for instant flavor and color!

Green Tea

Studies of green tea have shown that it may help reduce the risk of several types of cancer, heart disease, hypertension, kidney stones, and possibly even cavities. In addition to this, green tea is calorie-free (if you have it without milk or sugar) and naturally high in antioxidants. You can pick any flavor you enjoy, because green tea is available in many varieties. It can be drunk hot or iced, and if you want a little sweetening, a few drops of honey will serve you well — though most people enjoy it au naturel.

Juice + Seltzer

There's no need to purchase sugary sodas or pricey vitamin-enhanced waters, which also pack calories. Mixing 100 percent juice with seltzer yields a tastier, healthier, and less expensive drink. A thick, tart juice, such as cranberry, pomegranate, or grape, makes for a great jeltzer base in addition to supplying health benefits. Studies have shown that cranberry juice might protect against urinary tract infections and kidney stones; pomegranate juice is a great source of vitamins C and B; and grape juice has antioxidants that may help protect your brain and blood vessels. Mix one part juice with three parts seltzer to create this light and bubbly concoction.

Lemon/ Lime "Soda"

Can't give up your favorite citrus-flavored soda? Indulge in an occasional treat with a healthier version made with lemon or lime and a small amount of sweetener. Start with a glass of sparkling or seltzer water, add a few slices of lemon or lime (or both), and a dash of sugar.

Soy Milk

Soy beverages are naturally sweet and are now offered in a variety of flavors, including almond and vanilla. They are a great alternative to milk for those who are lactose intolerant or those who don't consume dairy. Studies on soy's benefits show that soy milk may reduce your risk for heart disease and osteoporosis. Look for low-fat, unsweetened soy beverages to reduce calories while enjoying a healthy, great-tasting beverage! Also, pick soy milk that has been fortified with nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, especially if you're drinking it as a substitute for milk.

Drink your Veggies

Vegetable juice offers a quick, low-calorie way to get all the benefits of veggies. It also contains much less natural sugar than fruit juices. But vegetable juice can be high in sodium, so opt for a low-sodium version whenever possible. Better yet, make your own fresh juice easily at home with a juicer. Simply add your favorite veggies, and even a few slices of fruit if you want to sweeten your drink, to the juicer — no chopping required! If you prefer a little kick, add some black pepper and a drop of hot sauce.

Why You Should Stop Drinking Soda? For a full list click here. My personal favorite beverage is a fruit smoothie! I take a little vanilla soy milk, greek yogurt (for protein), banana, and strawberries or mixed berries! Blend it all together and you are good to go!

Share your favorite smoothie recipe of healthy drink idea below!