Introduction
Soda is a beverage that needs no introduction. Coca-Cola and similar products are sold on just about every corner. All the commercialism surrounding them, reinforcing positive associations and memories into your psyche, can make these drinks especially difficult to resist – but that doesn’t mean it has to rule your life. Even if you have been a colaholic for decades, as long as you are still alive, there is an opportunity for you to cut soda.
Here are several reasons why you should consider quitting soda (that includes “diet” cola)!
- It helps you be more hydrated – for longer!
- It helps with weight loss.
- Cutting soda decreases your risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
- It promotes better health for your bones and decreases your chances of developing osteoporosis.
- It takes better care of your teeth.
- Want to avoid breakouts? Cut soda!
- Decrease feelings of anxiety, restlessness, or insomnia by avoiding fizzy drinks.
- It helps you save money.
- Lastly, it helps you feel healthier and better about yourself overall.
If you suffer from an addiction, unless you are visibly consuming something crazy like 30 cans a day, many people may dismiss your concerns. “Oh, just relax. It’s not like you’re an alcoholic!”
Don’t listen to any of these comments. You are not in the wrong for wanting to optimize your health to the fullest. Here’s how you can break free from your soda dependency and take control of your life.
1. Understand Your Triggers
When do you feel like drinking soda the most? Do you drink it when you’re bored or when you’re celebrating an accomplishment?
Understand when you are most likely to purchase cola and figure out how you can stear clear of it.
2. Cut Soda for One Week
You will feel much less motivated to quit soda if your plan is to go completely cold turkey and quit it for the rest of your life. Start with short-term goals and go from there.
3. Never Stock Up on Soda at the Grocery Store
Get something else to fill up your fridge instead. The best option would of course be water!
4. Try a No-Sugar Alternative
Alternative knock-off- brands such as Zevia can help you transition as you take baby steps to curb your addiction.
5. Drink Tea
Many people will tell you that habits do not simply get eliminated, but rather are replaced. Try a tea that is natural and low in sugar and cut soda.
6. Drink Water Every Time You Do Drink Soda
This is known as the 1:1 method. Drinking a full glass or bottle of water after drinking soda will also help rinse your mouth of any excess sugar remaining. This, of course, is not a replacement for brushing your teeth, but it will certainly help.
7. Don’t Be Discouraged by Withdrawals When You Cut Soda
Caffeine withdrawals are normal, especially if you have been dependent on soda for a fairly long time. Remember that they are temporary and are bound to disappear, typically within 2-9 days. You are stronger than your addiction.
Conclusion
You will experience countless benefits by making the decision to finally cut soda out of your life (or at least keep the habit to a minimum). It’s possible that you may even live longer as a result, and who could argue with a perk like that?!
