It's no secret that soda is bad for us. Regular soda is full of sugar and calories, and diet soda has its own issues. However, there are healthy alternatives to soda that will quench your poppy, fizzy cravings. I have been trying out some new carbonated drinks lately, being an extreme soda lover (or "pop" lover where I'm from), and I have been pleasantly surprised by some of my picks.
In the end, I've realized that drinking water doesn't have to be boring or seem like a chore. There are tons of great options out there that give soda a run for its money.
1. Simply Balanced sparkling water.
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Simply Balanced is a Target brand and offers some great food and drink options. But I have to say that the sparkling water is my absolute favorite. Every can is sweetened with real fruit and has absolutely no sugar or calories. The best part is that there's so many different flavor options and it's usually only $5 for two packs of eight cans. They are really refreshing and delicious - my personal favorite is the grapefruit.
2. LaCroix.
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When I first tried LaCroix, I wasn't sure if I liked it or not. However, after trying out different flavors, I have ultimately decided that it's pretty delicious. I personally enjoy the original flavor and the lemon flavor. What's cool about these is that they make great mixers for a low-carb and low-cal summer cocktail. Just add some white wine and you have the perfect summer wine spritzer. Or, use some as a base for a festive red wine sangria mix.
3. S.Pellegrino
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S.Pellegrino is a good option if you want to drink more water but aren't into over-carbonated sparkling water options. This choice gives the perfect amount of fizz and flavor, and the packaging is pretty cool. These are great for when you're on-the-go and will need a decent sized source of water with you. It's simple and easy to drink, and it will keep you from reaching for the soda at your next trip to the grocery store. Plus, you'll look fancy.
4. Sparkling Ice
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These bubbly drinks are delicious and pack enough punch to not make you miss the soda - at all. They are perfect for a hot summer day or when you have a sweet tooth but don't want the calories that come with satisfying it. There are also plenty of flavors to choose from, everywhere from kiwi strawberry to cherry limeade. This option makes it easy for you to make the switch.
Remember this summer that although the heat and humidity will have you craving a cold soda, there are plenty of options you don't have to be guilty about. These are only a few of my personal favorites, but the options are endless! Drinking water and staying hydrated no longer has to be a complete bore.
