Conventional sodas often taste great, but unfortunately they’re not very nourishing for the body. As you probably know, sodas today generally consist of processed ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup, caffeine, colorings and flavorings.
“Pure fructose contains no enzymes, vitamins, or minerals and robs the body of its micronutrient treasures in order to assimilate itself for physiological use . . . Research indicates that this free fructose interferes with the heart’s use of key minerals like magnesium, copper and chromium. Among other consequences, HFCS has been implicated in elevated blood cholesterol levels and the creation of blood clots. It has been found to inhibit the action of white blood cells so that they are unable to defend the body against harmful foreign invaders . . . Because it is metabolized by the liver, fructose does not cause the pancreas to release insulin the way it normally does. Fructose converts to fat more than any other sugar. This may be one of the reasons Americans continue to get fatter. Fructose raises serum triglycerides significantly.” Bill Sanda
Yikes! There’s definitely a better way to have a fun, sweet drink without the side effects!
Here are some of my favorite options when I want a cold, fizzy drink, or an alternative to a cocktail:
Kombucha is a great alternative. It contains probiotics, live active enzymes, polyphenols (fights free radicals), glucuronic acid (a powerful detoxifier), and many other nutrients. Some of my favorite brands are Synergy, Kevita and Holy Kombucha. I like to pour kombucha in a wine glass. It makes it feel more fancy. 😊
If you do a quick search, you can find all sorts of recipes for fermented sodas!
If you’re trying to kick a soda habit, I recommend drinking water first when you’re thirsty. Then, replace your first soda of the day with a drink like the ones listed in this post. Remember, slow changes make the difference. You can do it!
Serves: Serves 4
You can use frozen and thawed berries if you can't find fresh ones.
Save RecipeIngredients
- 2 cups raspberries
- 2 cups strawberries
- 1 lemon, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1 vanilla bean (split, seeds scraped, pod reserved; or 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 4 cups seltzer
Instructions
- Place the raspberries, strawberries, lemon, vanilla bean, and honey in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water. Cook until berries have released most of their juices, about 12 minutes.
- Strain mixture through a fine sieve, pressing gently with the back of a spoon. Discard the solids. Cool completely. Mixture will keep for one week in the refrigerator.
- To serve: Pour 1/4 cup syrup into 4 ice-filled glasses. Top each with 1 cup seltzer. Serve with lemon wedges.
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