Oh no, I have done it again I have brought up another bad four-letter word, possibly a three-letter bad word depending on what part of the country you are from, as some call soda, pop instead. As a medical professional I must admit that I am a horrible water drinker and worse, I was drinking probably two cans of diet soda a day several months ago. I had convinced myself that when I converted from the sugary sodas to diet, some 20 years ago, that I was doing myself a favor. Unfortunately, I did not realize the harm that aspartame or any other artificial sweetener can cause and how it can contribute to weight gain instead of loss. Once I found out several years ago the controversy and health concerns I knew I wanted to stop, but I would read conflicting reports and then just tell myself that I could continue drinking it.
Many of you are already aware of the harm artificial sweeteners can have, so I won’t harp on that but will share with you how I made the switch and cut soda out completely. It was so easy I have never looked back. Once I made the decision to go organic and eat whole non-processed foods, artificial sweeteners didn’t fit into that picture. So, I knew diet soda, or any sugary soda, would no longer be part of my healthy lifestyle. I got rid of any sodas in my house and I started drinking naturally flavored sparkling water. 
The sparkling water contains no sodium, artificial sweeteners, or artificial flavors. These drinks have no calories and most have no carbs. I change up the flavors and the brands depending on what is on sale.
The carbonation appeases my soda craving and I am able to contribute to my water intake while drinking them. Some people have issues with carbonation contributing to bloating and they would probably benefit from other naturally flavored waters without carbonation. If I need a caffeine boost then I seek out green or black tea or coffee. So, do yourself and your body a favor and kick that soda habit.
What is your purpose for better health? 