Soda and soft drinks are very popular all over the world. Many people have the habit of drinking it right after every meal. Loaded with artificial sweeteners and many other harmful ingredients, they are highly addictive and have a very bad impact on your health. However, due to its effervescence, sweet taste, and refreshing qualities, soda has become a go-to choice for quenching thirst and satisfying cravings.
According to Healthline, sugary drinks like soda tend to cause unhealthy weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and an increased risk of heart disease. These problems can also make you more susceptible to cancer. Due to the high sugar content, consuming too much soda can impact your dental health as well.
So, if you want to stay fit, here are six healthy and refreshing drinks you should replace soda with:
Green Tea
Being rich in antioxidants and low in caffeine (compared to other teas), this drink can be enjoyed both hot and cold. According to a report by Everyday Health, it is good for the heart, liver, and type 2 diabetes. Its regular consumption can also contribute positively to your weight loss journey. If you have it without sugar or milk, then green tea is completely calorie-free.
Coconut Water
Loaded with several vitamins and minerals, coconut water is perfect to boost your energy at any time of the day. The electrolytes present in this natural beverage make it a perfect post-workout drink. It also hydrates and keeps your body cool during hot summers and humid monsoons.
Lemonade
If you like citrus flavour, then a glass of fresh lemonade is best to replace your carbonated drink. It is extremely refreshing and tastes very delicious. You can also add a dash of coconut sugar or agave syrup to give it a sweet flavour. As we all know, lemons are a great source of vitamin C and other important nutrients. This beverage can improve your overall health.
Kombucha
Kombucha is a popular fermented drink that is known for several health benefits. It is a great way to satisfy your craving for carbonated drinks and added sugar. Due to its fermentation process, kombucha is rich in gut-friendly bacteria called probiotics. So, if you have any digestive health issues, then replace your regular soda with kombucha.
Fruit-Infused Water
Fruit-infused water can be a great alternative to soda. It’s refreshing and sweet, which can help you curb your soda cravings. It is also easy to prepare; all you need to do is add a few slices of your favourite fruits to your water bottle and drink it throughout the day. For the best taste, add a few ice cubes along with the fruits. Lemons, oranges, watermelons, and cucumbers are some of the best choices for this drink.
Iced Tea
Apart from green tea, iced tea is also a great alternative to soda if you are looking for a caffeinated flavour. Being an ideal source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, it is both healthy and refreshing. You can also add a few drops of honey and lemon to enhance the flavour of your iced tea.