Thirsty for something good...What can I drink besides water?

[azoperagal]

I am on week 2 of no caffeine and no more diet soda, which is quite an accomplishment considering how much Diet Pepsi I could drink in a day. I am slowly getting rid of the headaches from caffeine withdrawals, and my cravings for diet soda. However, I'm starting to get a little bored with just water. I have tried Crystal Light sparingly, but I am still concerned because it contains aspartame. It seems like every type of lo-cal drink has an artificial sweetener which will act just the same as sugar.

Besides adding stevia to decaf ice-tea or adding lemon or cucumbers to water, do you have any other suggestions on the types of drinks I can enjoy while on the program?

Thank you!

[drelizabeth]

Originally Posted by azoperagal

I am on week 2 of no caffeine and no more diet soda, which is quite an accomplishment considering how much Diet Pepsi I could drink in a day. I am slowly getting rid of the headaches from caffeine withdrawals, and my cravings for diet soda. However, I'm starting to get a little bored with just water. I have tried Crystal Light sparingly, but I am still concerned because it contains aspartame. It seems like every type of lo-cal drink has an artificial sweetener which will act just the same as sugar.

Besides adding stevia to decaf ice-tea or adding lemon or cucumbers to water, do you have any other suggestions on the types of drinks I can enjoy while on the program?

Thank you!

Azoperagal,

Thank you for writing in. Weaning yourself off diet cokes can be difficult. It sounds like you are doing pretty well though. You are correct that low calorie drinks contain artificial sweeteners. We do suggest that you avoid them because they can perpetuate your sugar cravings.

As far as suggestions for other flavorful beverages, have you considered using flavored seltzer water? You can jazz these and water up by adding slices of lemon, lime, orange, etc. Unsweetened iced tea is another fine option. I use Celestial Seasonings Red Zinger flavor to make my iced tea, and add cinnamon to it.

I hope that this helps. Hopefully others will also give you some ideas that they have tried. If you have any other questions just let me know.

[jsraja]

other than water you go for any health drinks or fresh juices........

[drheather]

Originally Posted by jsraja

other than water you go for any health drinks or fresh juices........

Hello and thanks for the suggestions.

I would like to add that water with fresh squeezed lemon or lime is very nice as well as sparkling mineral water that is fruit flavor. Although, not sweetened with any sweeteners or artificial sweeteners.

Or iced herbal teas can add a bit of variety.

I hope that this helps.