In today’s world, more people are becoming health-conscious, paying closer attention to what they eat and drink. One of the top culprits of unhealthy diets? Soda. Traditional sodas are loaded with sugar, artificial sweeteners, and preservatives, contributing to health issues like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Fortunately, a new generation of “better-for-you” sodas is emerging—alternatives that deliver refreshing taste without the harmful ingredients. In this blog, we'll introduce you to some of the best healthy soda alternatives, including Sidekick Soda and other popular options in the U.S.
1. Sidekick Soda
Why it's better: Sidekick Soda is crafted using honey as a natural sweetener, which not only offers a unique flavor profile but also keeps the sugar content in check. With five distinct flavors—pear, mango, cherry, strawberry, and plum—Sidekick Soda focuses on clean, natural ingredients. Honey provides antioxidant properties, making this soda a guilt-free and delicious indulgence.
2. Olipop
Why it's better: Olipop is a soda alternative designed to support digestive health. It’s packed with prebiotics, plant fiber, and botanical extracts, making it far more than just a sugary drink. Each can of Olipop contains just 2-5 grams of sugar, compared to the 30+ grams found in traditional sodas, making it a great choice for those looking to cut back on sugar while supporting their gut health.
3. Poppi
Why it's better: Poppi infuses apple cider vinegar into its drinks, which is known for promoting digestion, boosting energy, and regulating blood sugar levels. With fruity flavors and minimal added sugar, Poppi gives soda-lovers a better alternative that still satisfies the sweet tooth but with added health benefits.
4. Culture Pop
Why it's better: This probiotic soda offers a flavorful, fizzy twist by incorporating live probiotics and real fruit juices. Culture Pop is designed to improve gut health while delivering a naturally sweet and tart flavor with no artificial ingredients. With probiotics becoming essential for maintaining a healthy microbiome, Culture Pop makes a refreshing, health-conscious choice.
5. United Sodas of America
Why it's better: This brand offers a diverse array of vibrant flavors made from organic, plant-based ingredients and contains zero artificial sweeteners. With just 30 calories per can, United Sodas of America focuses on keeping the drink light and health-friendly without compromising on flavor.
6. Recess
Why it's better: Recess pairs fizzy water with hemp extract and adaptogens, ingredients known for reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Each can is low in sugar and calories, offering a soothing alternative to the caffeine-laden or sugary sodas of the past.
7. Kin Euphorics
Why it's better: Kin beverages are designed with nootropics, adaptogens, and botanicals to promote mood-boosting benefits while delivering a refreshing, low-calorie soda alternative. Perfect for those who want to stay sharp and energized without the crash that often follows sugary sodas.
8. Zevia
Why it's better: Known for its zero-calorie, zero-sugar formula, Zevia uses stevia as a natural sweetener, making it an excellent choice for people trying to reduce their sugar intake. Available in classic soda flavors like cola, root beer, and ginger ale, Zevia provides a healthier twist on familiar favorites.
9. Bubly
Why it's better: Bubly sparkling water offers a soda-like experience with no added sugars or artificial ingredients. With natural fruit flavors and a refreshing fizz, it's a simple way to stay hydrated while satisfying your craving for something bubbly.
10. Spindrift
Why it's better: Made with real squeezed fruit and no added sugar, Spindrift offers a refreshing, lightly sweetened alternative to traditional soda. It’s also low in calories, making it a great choice for anyone watching their waistline.
11. AHA Sparkling Water
Why it's better: AHA takes sparkling water to the next level with bold flavor combinations like blueberry + pomegranate and citrus + green tea. With no sugar, calories, or artificial sweeteners, it's a bubbly and flavorful way to stay hydrated.
12. LaCroix
Why it's better: LaCroix is a household name when it comes to sparkling water. With its extensive variety of flavors and zero sugars or sweeteners, it offers a refreshing alternative to sugary sodas.
13. Sanzo
Why it's better: Sanzo focuses on incorporating real Asian fruit flavors, like calamansi and lychee, into their sparkling waters, providing a unique and healthier soda option. It’s lightly sweetened with no added sugars, keeping things light and flavorful.
14. Topo Chico
Why it's better: A naturally carbonated mineral water, Topo Chico offers crisp bubbles with a subtle, refreshing flavor. It's often enjoyed on its own or mixed with other drinks to add a bit of fizz without any extra sugar or calories.
15. Perrier
Why it's better: Another sparkling mineral water, Perrier has been a staple for those looking to cut out sugary sodas while still enjoying a refreshing drink. It’s naturally calorie-free and offers a variety of fruit-infused flavors.
16. Green Cola
Why it's better: Green Cola is sweetened with stevia and flavored with natural ingredients, offering a healthier alternative to traditional colas. With zero calories and no artificial sweeteners, it gives cola-lovers a guilt-free option.
17. Virgil's Zero Sugar
Why it's better: Virgil’s makes classic soda flavors like root beer and cream soda but without the sugar. Sweetened naturally with stevia, Virgil’s offers a low-carb, keto-friendly alternative for those looking to avoid traditional sugary drinks.
18. Huzzah Probiotic Seltzer
Why it's better: Huzzah combines the benefits of probiotics with the enjoyment of a fizzy drink. Each can is lightly sweetened with organic cane sugar and contains just 3 grams of sugar, making it a great option for digestive health.
19. LOFI Botanical
Why it's better: LOFI sodas are made with botanicals and herbs, offering complex flavors without any added sugars or artificial ingredients. These drinks provide a sophisticated alternative to traditional soda, making them perfect for a more mindful beverage experience.
20. Gist
Why it's better: Made from fermented tea, Gist is a gut-friendly soda alternative that offers probiotics in every sip. It’s naturally low in sugar and high in flavor, giving health-conscious consumers a tasty way to enjoy their soda fix.
21. SodaStream
Why it's better: While technically not a brand, SodaStream allows you to make your own fizzy drinks at home with carbonated water and natural flavorings, letting you control the sugar and ingredients for a fully customizable healthy soda experience.
Why Switch to Healthy Soda Alternatives?
Healthy soda alternatives like these focus on clean, natural ingredients, lower sugar content, and sometimes even added benefits like probiotics or adaptogens. These brands provide the satisfaction of a bubbly drink while helping you avoid the negative health impacts associated with traditional sodas.
Choosing a healthier soda can improve your overall well-being, from better digestion to reduced risk of chronic illnesses. With so many flavorful and innovative alternatives on the market, there’s never been a better time to swap out your old soda for something new.