DIY Life

When I was growing up, I wasn't allowed to drink soda. Even back then, my dad was pretty smart. He said the stuff would make me fat and rot my teeth. Seems research studies are proving him right about the unhealthiness of soda.

When I was old enough to move out of the house, I started drinking soda like mad. My dad was right; I did indeed gain some unneeded weight and I had to go to the dentist because I had cavities.

If you are trying to kick the soda habit, try jazzing up water with natural flavorings. You can make your water super cold with ice chips, then add in some lemon or lime juice, along with a couple slices of the fruit. Keeping water refrigerated at all times will get you reaching for the jug instead of the can.

More tips include: not keeping any soda in the house, and switching to seltzer water if it is the bubbles you think you will miss. When I am thirsty I put a couple drops of lemon juice in my 16 oz cup, then add a couple sprinkles of Crystal Light to give a hint of added flavor. I am kept hydrated and sugar-free. I do the same with juice and iced tea, because I can no longer tolerate the taste of a full-strength sweetened beverage.

I stopped drinking soda a number of years ago because it was just too sweet, and, well (blushing here)... the main reason is because it gave me acid reflux, and would cause serious pain to my nose if I happened to burp. Once in a while I have a craving for a sip of soda, but I usually have to chase it with a healthy slug of water just to get the sugary taste out of my mouth.

Feel free to leave a comment and let us know how you have broken your soda addiction.