Try These 5 Substitutes for Soda

Whether you’re looking to slim down for summer or simply adopt healthier habits, soda is typically one of the first things that dietary experts recommend cutting from your menu. But routines can be tough to break — so here’s a look at some tasty soda substitutes that can help you get your fix for fizz.
 
Sparkling water
 
If you crave bubbles in your beverage but you’re looking to cut back on sugar, consider exploring the world of sparkling water. The industry has come a long way since the days of plain seltzer water — a trip to your local grocery store will reveal a huge selection of fruit flavors, options for unsweetened and calorie-free sweetened varieties, and even a range of caffeinated choices, so you don’t have to give up that extra kick that so many sodas provide. Some fruity sparkling waters are flavored with real juice, so you’ve even got options if you’re avoiding artificial flavors.
 
Sparkling juice
 
For those who aren’t fans of sparkling water, try giving carbonated juice a shot. It generally has a more substantial mouthfeel and a more natural-tasting flavor profile than many sparkling waters. Just bear in mind that sparkling juice isn’t low in calories or sugar — so if you’re looking to cut back on these parts of your diet, sparkling juice may not be the right fit for you. On top of that, sparkling juice is a bit more expensive and harder to find in stores compared to sparkling water.
 
Sparkling tea
 
While sparkling tea isn’t currently as popular as sparkling water, it’s a viable replacement for soda that comes with a range of added benefits you won’t get from other drinks. Many of these teas offer a healthy dose of antioxidants along with a bit of caffeine to keep you alert and energized. Plus, since teas run the gamut from fresh-tasting matcha, smoky Lapsang Souchong, classic black tea, and fruity herbal blends, there are tasty options for every palate.
 
Kombucha
 
This polarizing health-food tonic isn’t for everyone, but kombucha fans swear by its viability as a swap for soda pop. Often touted for its gut-healthy probiotics, kombucha definitely packs a punch when it comes to offering flavor, fizziness, and even the energy-boosting effects of caffeine. However, since kombucha is a fermented product, it can contain a small amount of alcohol. While it’s not enough to produce a buzz when consumed by a typical adult, keep this factor in mind if you happen to be pregnant, have alcohol intolerance, or take medication that can have adverse interactions with alcohol.
 
At-home carbonation systems
 
If you’re having trouble finding these refreshing alternatives to soda, you can bypass that issue (and save money) with a home carbonation machine. These DIY soda-making systems allow you to add bubbles to any drink. So whether you’re looking to carbonate juice, tea, or a drink you’ve made from a powdered mix, you’re never more than a push of a button away from a refreshingly fizzy beverage.
 
For more healthy swaps in your daily diet, consider consulting with a dietician or browsing healthy eating blogs for inspiration.