We all know that fizzy drinks aren't good for you. Even zero sugar alternatives can have a negative effect on our health. Although the data is conflicting, certain research suggests that the use of artificial sweeteners might contribute to metabolic syndrome, a cluster of illnesses that increase disease risk and obesity. And with that knowledge, it seems obvious that we should cut down on fizzy drinks.
So, how do we do it?
Don't Go Cold Turkey
If you're used to drinking fizzy drinks every day, it's going to be tough to give them up completely. And that's okay! It's important to be realistic about your goals. Instead of promising yourself that you'll never have another soda, start by cutting down gradually. Aim to drink one less can or bottle each day. This will also help with the next tip!
Be Careful of withdrawal
When you cut down on fizzy drinks, you might experience some withdrawal symptoms. These can include headaches, tiredness, and irritability. This is because your body is used to the sugar high and caffeine that comes with fizzy drinks.
To combat this, make sure you're drinking plenty of water and eating regular meals. This will help to keep your energy levels up and stave off those pesky headaches. You might also want to consider adding some electrolytes to your diet, like potassium, sodium & magnesium.
Find alternatives to fizzy drinks
If you're struggling to cut out fizzy drinks completely, try finding alternatives. There are plenty of healthy options out there that can help to quench your thirst. Water is always the best choice, but if you're looking for something with a little more flavour, try sparkling water with natural fruits & natural ingredients.
These alternative drinks will help to keep you hydrated without the sugar crash that comes with most fizzy drinks. And they might even be tastier than you think!
Avoid drinking fizzy drinks with meals
Fizzy drinks are often high in sugar and calories, which can make them a poor choice to drink with meals. Not only will they add unnecessary calories to your diet, but they can also interfere with the absorption of nutrients from your food.
If you're looking for a refreshing drink to have with your meal, try water or unsweetened iced tea instead. These drinks will help to keep you hydrated without adding extra sugar and calories to your diet.
Don't keep fizzy drinks in the house
One of the best ways to avoid drinking fizzy drinks is to not keep them in the house. If they're not readily available, you'll be less likely to reach for them when you're thirsty.
Instead, stock your fridge with healthy alternatives like water and other natural products in the market. This way, you'll always have a refreshing, healthier drink to reach for when you're thirsty.
Get enough sleep
When you're tired, you're more likely to reach for sugary and unhealthy foods. This is because your body is looking for a quick energy boost. To avoid this, make sure you're getting enough sleep each night. Most adults need around 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
If you find yourself reaching for fizzy drinks during the day, try drinking a glass of water instead. This will help to rehydrate you and give you a much-needed energy boost.
Make sure you're getting enough exercise
Exercise is a great way to boost your energy levels and improve your overall health. If you find yourself reaching for fizzy drinks, try going for a walk or run instead. This will help to increase your energy levels and make you feel better overall.
Get support
If you're finding it hard to stick to your goals, reach out for support. Talk to your friends and family about your plans to cut down on fizzy drinks. They can help to hold you accountable and offer encouragement when you need it.
You can also join our Facebook community group for support, we have many members that are in the same boat who are trying to cut down on their sugar intake, so you're not alone!
Deciding to cut down on fizzy drinks is a great step in improving your overall health. By following these tips, you'll be on your way to success. Just remember to take things one day at a time, and don't be too hard on yourself if you have a slip-up. Cutting down on sugar is a journey, not a race!
