Studies have shown that regular consumption of sugary sodas can increase a child’s risk of obesity, and soda has also been associated with an increased risk of diabetes later in life. Dentists aren’t fans of sodas, not just because of the sugar content, but also because sodas can contain acid, which can erode tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities. In adults, sugary sodas are linked to these issues and more — studies have shown that regular soda use can lead to a loss of calcium in the urine and may weaken bones over time. ~Everyday Health
Soda can be a huge health hazard for you and your kids. But, sometimes you just want to drink something with some flavor. While juices can be a better alternative, store bought ones can still contain a lot of added sugar. Here are some healthier soda alternatives…
1.Flavored Water
Again, store bought ones can have a lot of additives, but it is easy to make your own!
Flavored waters have been popping up all over the place, but many still contain sugar or artificial sweeteners. A healthier choice is natural flavoring: Just add slices of your favorite fruits and veggies — lemons, oranges, watermelon, cucumber, mint, or limes — to a pitcher of ice-cold water for a refreshing and flavorful drink. Another great option is to put chopped-up fruit in an ice cube tray, add water, and freeze. Place these colorful fruit cubes in your beverage for instant flavor and color! ~Everyday Health
2.Homemade Lemonade
Make your own lemonade with 1/4 to 1/2 cup of lemon juice plus 3 1/2 cups of water. For more sweetness, add stevia, which is a natural and healthy sweetener. ~Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, ShareCare
Photo via FoodNetwork.com
3.Fresh Juice, HuffPost Healthy Living
Unlike bottled varieties, freshly juiced fruits and vegetables have no added sugar. By selecting the ingredients, you can also control sugar portions by tempering sweet fruits like mangoes, grapes and melons with low-sugar, high-fiber fare such as kale, celery and lettuce.
4.Flavored Milk, Mother Nature Network
Here is a great way to flavor milk for kids who do not love the taste. The strawberries are also a great source of vitamin C.
Strawberry Milk Recipe
1/2 cup strawberries
2 cups milk
Blend until berries are pureed
You can use milk alternatives, like rice or almond milk, for children avoiding dairy.
5.Coconut Water or Juice
Coconut water is low in sugar and high in potassium, antioxidants and electrolytes. Make sure to avoid the sports recovery drinks that advertise coconut water. Either just buy plain coconut water or get it straight from the source. (Yes, coconut water is the water you find in the center of a coconut!) ~Mother Nature Network
If you buy canned, be careful about the sugar and additives. They are still better than soda, due to being less acidic. Just like flavoring your water, you can buy plain coconut water and flavor it yourself. Then you know just what you are drinking and giving your little ones.
6.Fruity Tea “Soda,” Wholesome Cook
To make Tea Soda: steep 2 tea bags of your favourite herbal tea (tisane) in 3 cups of boiling water. Chill. Add 1 cup of sparkling mineral or soda water. You’ll have instant flavoured fizzy drink with close to no sugar. Not to mention the lack of colouring and other additives. Tea flavour infusions to consider: mint, cranberry and pomegranate, strawberry, blackcurrant, chamomile, lemon.
WholesomeCook
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