Here’s what to know before you stock up on soda.
Many times, soda (or pop, depending on where in the country you reside!)
is actually cited as one of the most unhealthy beverages to reach for.
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However, in recent years there has been a concerted effort to change this paradigm.
What Makes Soda More or Less Healthy?
In turn, we generally want to avoid these sugar substitutes at all costs.
Other concerning ingredients to look for on the label are artificial colors.
There are now sodas available that provideprebiotics, probiotics, and even adaptogens!
For some people, these may add value to their diet, explains Gargano.
Sparkling water is plentiful and has zero calories and zero additives.
There are no shortage of flavor options out there.
For an added health-protective boost choose options that are in BPA-free lined cans, says Best.
These beverages also help you meet yourdaily hydration goals!
My personal favorites are Origin (their berry flavor is delightful!
), Waterloo, and old school Polar Seltzer, Gargano shares.
Spindrift is one example of a fruit juice-infused sparkling water while Izze is a common sparkling juice variety.
Prebiotic Sodas
Prebiotic sodasoffer gut-healthy fiber and far less sugar than regular sodas, explains Best.
This means that one can almost meets a third of most peoples daily fiber needs.
But its not for everyone.
Probiotic Sodas
Staying on thegut health train, there are also plenty of new-age sodas filled withprobiotics.
Probiotics are healthy bacteria that add to the vitality of the gut microbiome, strengthening this microbial community.
With any herb, be sure to check whether that ingredient interacts with any medications or supplements youre taking.
