Updated at: 05-09-2023 - By: John Lau

Is your love for Pepsi taking a toll on your wallet and waistline? With an average can of soda containing 150 calories, mostly from sugar, it’s no wonder many are seeking budget-friendly alternatives.

This blog post will guide you through a range of cheaper and healthier substitutes that won’t shortchange taste or satisfaction. Read on to explore the world beyond Pepsi!

The Problem with Soda

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Soda is a culprit for empty calories and can contribute to weight gain, as well as unhealthy behaviors associated with excessive soda consumption.

Empty calories and weight gain

Sodas like Pepsi pack a punch of empty calories. These are calories that offer no nutritional value but can lead to significant weight gain over time. Each can or bottle rapidly fills your daily calorie quota, leaving less room for nutrient-rich foods your body needs.

Drinking soda also triggers hunger pangs and subsequent food cravings, causing frequent overeating episodes. Consequently, the scale keeps creeping up as these additional calories get stored in the body as fat.

This consistent weight gain from soda consumption opens doors to serious health issues like obesity and diabetes.

Unhealthy behaviors associated with soda consumption

Consuming soda is linked to several unhealthy behaviors that can negatively impact your health. People who drink soda regularly tend to consume more calories overall and have a higher risk of weight gain and obesity.

This is because soda contains empty calories with no nutritional value, leading to an imbalance in your diet. Additionally, drinking soda has been associated with an increased intake of added sugars, which can contribute to various health issues such as tooth decay and an increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes.

Moreover, the high caffeine content in many sodas can lead to sleep disturbances and dependency on caffeine for energy. It’s important to be aware of these unhealthy behaviors associated with soda consumption and consider healthier alternatives that provide hydration without the negative effects on your health.

Healthy Alternatives to Pepsi

Some healthy alternatives to Pepsi include Bubly sparkling water, BUBBL’R, Propel Electrolyte Water, Pure Leaf Iced Tea, and Kevita Kombucha.

Bubly sparkling water

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Bubly sparkling water is a great option for those looking for a cheap and healthy substitute to Pepsi. This sugar-free beverage provides refreshing carbonation without any added calories or unhealthy ingredients.

With its wide range of flavors, including strawberry, lime, and grapefruit, Bubly offers a delicious and guilt-free alternative to satisfy soda cravings. Whether enjoyed on its own or used as a mixer in cocktails, Bubly sparkling water is an affordable choice that can help you cut back on your Pepsi consumption while still enjoying a fizzy drink.

BUBBL’R

BUBBL’R is a great option for those looking for a cheap alternative to Pepsi. This sugar-free sparkling water offers a refreshing and flavorful taste without any of the negative health effects associated with soda consumption.

With flavors like cherry limeade, blueberry pomegranate, and ginger peach, BUBBL’R provides a delicious and healthy beverage choice for customers looking to cut back on their soda intake.

Made with natural flavors and no added sugars or calories, BUBBL’R is an affordable substitute that won’t break the bank. So if you’re craving something fizzy but want to avoid the empty calories of regular soda, give BUBBL’R a try!

Propel Electrolyte Water

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Propel Electrolyte Water is a healthy and affordable alternative to Pepsi. This sugar-free beverage not only quenches your thirst, but also replenishes electrolytes lost during physical activity or alcohol consumption.

With its refreshing flavors like berry, grape, and lemon, Propel Electrolyte Water keeps you hydrated without adding unnecessary calories to your diet. It’s a great choice for those looking to cut back on soda while still enjoying a flavorful drink.

So next time you’re craving something fizzy and refreshing, reach for Propel Electrolyte Water instead of Pepsi!

Pure Leaf Iced Tea

Pure Leaf Iced Tea is a refreshing and healthier alternative to Pepsi. Made with real brewed tea leaves, it offers a satisfying and naturally sweet taste without the excessive sugar found in soda.

With its wide range of flavors including lemon, peach, raspberry, and unsweetened black tea, Pure Leaf Iced Tea provides a variety of options to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer the classic taste or want to try something new, Pure Leaf Iced Tea can be enjoyed on its own or as a mixer for mocktails and cocktails.

It’s an affordable choice that quenches your thirst while providing fewer calories and more natural ingredients compared to Pepsi.

Kevita Kombucha

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Kevita Kombucha is a healthy and delicious alternative to Pepsi that can help you cut down on your soda cravings. Made from fermented tea, Kevita Kombucha is packed with probiotics, which can support gut health and boost your immune system.

With its fizzy and refreshing taste, it’s a great way to satisfy your thirst without the guilt of consuming empty calories or excessive sugar. Plus, Kevita offers a variety of flavors like tropical punch and mango habanero, so you can find one that suits your taste buds.

Give Kevita Kombucha a try and discover a flavorful and healthier choice compared to Pepsi.

Other Soda Alternatives

Flavored sparkling water

Flavored sparkling water is a refreshing and healthy alternative to Pepsi for those looking to cut down on soda consumption. With no added sugars or calories, it provides a guilt-free way to satisfy your thirst.

Whether you prefer fruity flavors like strawberry or tropical mango, or enjoy the classic taste of lemon lime, there are plenty of options available. Flavored sparkling water not only quenches your thirst but also adds a burst of flavor without any artificial additives.

So grab a can or bottle of flavored sparkling water and enjoy the fizzling sensation while staying hydrated and making healthier beverage choices.

In addition to being a tasty substitute for Pepsi, flavored sparkling water is also an excellent option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake. With various flavors to choose from, such as raspberry, cherry, and citrus blends, you can find one that suits your taste buds.

Sparkling water infusions

Flavored sparkling water is a great alternative to soda for those looking to cut back on their Pepsi consumption. Sparkling water infusions, like fruit and herb-infused options, offer a refreshing and flavorful experience without the added sugar or calories.

With natural fruit juices and herbal teas as ingredients, these noncarbonated beverages provide a healthier choice for customers who want something fizzy but without the guilt. Plus, they are often more affordable than buying multiple cans or bottles of soda.

So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that satisfies your taste buds while keeping you hydrated, give sparkling water infusions a try!

Freshly squeezed lemonade

Freshly squeezed lemonade is a refreshing and healthy alternative to Pepsi. It is made with just three simple ingredients: lemons, water, and sugar (or a sugar substitute for those watching their calorie intake).

This homemade beverage provides a burst of citrus flavor without the artificial additives found in soda. Plus, it’s easy to make at home or find in local markets during the summer season.

So why not quench your thirst with some freshly squeezed lemonade? It’s a delicious and budget-friendly option that will satisfy your craving for a sweet and tangy drink.

Coconut water

Coconut water is a refreshing and hydrating alternative to Pepsi that comes with some additional health benefits. Known for its natural electrolytes, coconut water can help replenish lost fluids and keep you hydrated.

It’s also low in calories and sugar compared to soda, making it a healthier choice. Plus, coconut water contains essential minerals like potassium and magnesium, which are important for maintaining proper bodily functions.

So the next time you’re craving something fizzy and sweet, reach for coconut water instead of Pepsi for a more nutritious option.

Cutting Soda Cravings

Discover the science behind soda cravings and learn effective strategies to resist those urges. Read on to find out how you can kick the soda habit for good.

The science behind soda/sugar cravings

Soda and sugar cravings are not just a matter of willpower; there is actually science behind them. When we consume sugary drinks like soda, our brains release dopamine, which gives us a temporary feeling of pleasure.

This triggers a reward system in the brain that can lead to cravings for more sugar. Additionally, research has shown that consuming high levels of sugar can impact the brain’s reward pathways and increase the likelihood of developing addictive behaviors.

Understanding the science behind soda/sugar cravings can help us take steps to combat these cravings and make healthier choices.

How to fight soda cravings

Fight soda cravings with these simple tips:

  1. Stay hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day can help curb soda cravings and keep your body hydrated.
  2. Find healthy alternatives: Stock up on sugar-free beverages like flavored sparkling water, electrolyte drinks, herbal teas, or natural fruit juices.
  3. Distract yourself: Engage in activities that divert your attention away from soda cravings, such as going for a walk, reading a book, or doing a puzzle.
  4. Eat balanced meals: Consuming nutritious meals can reduce the urge to reach for sugary drinks like soda.
  5. Limit temptation: Keep sodas out of sight and replace them with healthier options in your fridge or pantry.
  6. Practice mindful eating: Pay attention to your body’s hunger and fullness signals instead of relying on soda to quench thirst or satisfy cravings.
  7. Get support: Share your goals with friends and family who can provide encouragement and accountability during your efforts to cut back on soda consumption.

Conclusion

Looking for a cheap alternative to Pepsi? Look no further! With options like Bubly sparkling water, Pure Leaf iced tea, and Kevita kombucha, you can enjoy refreshing and healthier beverages without breaking the bank.

Say goodbye to empty calories and hello to affordable thirst-quenchers that won’t compromise your budget or taste buds.