Seven Simple Tips for Kicking the Soda Habit

In 2017, U.S. soda sales fizzled out for the 12th year in a row, according to the trade publication Beverage Digest. Growing consumer concern over the health risks of artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and increased consumption of bottled water are partly responsible for the dip in sales.

Do you still down a daily soda (or two or three)? Jump on the healthy beverage bandwagon with these tips from Sheah Rarback, a registered dietitian with the University of Miami Health System.

1. Wean yourself gradually. Swap the two-liter size for two eight-ounce cans.
2. Stop looking for bargains. “BOGOs” benefit your wallet, not your waistline.
3. Track the calories. Being aware of how many calories you consume from soda may motivate you to quit.
4. Say no to the fruit juice. Most juice pack a sugary punch. If you must drink juice, dilute it or eat the whole fruit instead. The fiber in an apple or orange slows the rate of sugar absorption.
5. Switch to iced tea. If you crave the caffeine in cola, try tea instead. It has zero calories and offers some health benefits. Iced herbal tea is a flavorful, caffeine-free option.
6. Drink water. Miss the carbonation? Try flavored, unsweetened seltzer water or mineral water.
7. Sip simply. Add a slice of lemon, lime, cucumber, ginger or mint to your drinking water for an inexpensive, refreshing alternative to bottled or specialty waters and a healthy alternative to soda.

Written by a staff writer at UMiami Health News.

Tags: diet soda, healthy beverage, Sheah Rarback, soda, soft drinks