Introduction
If you are trying to manage your weight or improve your overall health, one helpful thing you can do is swap soda or pop for enhanced flavored water. These products are ideal for hydration without adding calories and, as a bonus, offer a wide array of nutrients and vitamins. Other benefits include that they are less acidic and better for teeth, have fewer artificial ingredients, and can curb cravings.
Steps to Recover
Benefits of Enhanced Flavored Water
- Wide variety of flavors
- Better hydration
- Zero calories
- Added nutrients and vitamins
- Better oral hygiene and dental health
- Fewer artificial ingredients
- Curb Cravings
How Enhanced Waters Benefit Your Health
Wide Variety of Flavors
Enhanced waters come in many delicious flavors, making them a satisfying alternative to soda. All taste preferences can be satisfied, from refreshing citrus blends like lemon-lime and orange to fruity options such as berry, tropical punch, and watermelon. These beverages are designed to provide a flavorful and enjoyable drinking experience.
Better Hydration
Hydration is crucial for overall health, but soda can have a mild diuretic effect, leading to increased fluid loss, particularly those with caffeine. In contrast, many enhanced waters contain electrolytes, such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium, which help the body retain fluids and stay hydrated. This makes them a better choice for maintaining hydration levels throughout the day.
Zero Calories
Most sodas contain high amounts of added sugar, which can contribute to weight gain, insulin resistance, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. A 20-ounce bottle of soda contains about 240 calories, which is nearly 10% of the daily calorie recommendation for an adult male, 12% of the daily calorie recommendation for adult women, and as much as 17% of the daily recommendation for teenagers. Consuming excessive sugar can also lead to energy crashes and cravings for more sweets. Enhanced water, especially those with little to no added sugar, provides a flavorful alternative without the harmful effects of excessive sugar consumption.
Added Nutrients and Vitamins
As mentioned above, sodas are packed with calories but lack essential nutrients, making them a source of “empty calories.” Drinking them regularly can contribute to excess calorie intake without providing any real nutritional value. On the other hand, enhanced waters can offer essential vitamins and minerals while often having zero or much lower calories, making them a more nutritious and weight-friendly option. Some enhanced waters contain B vitamins for energy, vitamin C for immunity, and antioxidants to combat oxidative stress. For example, some products have as much as 240% of the recommended daily amount of vitamin C.
Better Oral Hygiene And Dental Health
Soda is highly acidic. This can erode tooth enamel over time and contribute to cavities. Additionally, the high sugar content in soda fuels harmful bacteria in the mouth, increasing the risk of tooth decay. Enhanced waters, particularly those with a neutral or slightly alkaline pH, are much better for dental health and can help protect your teeth in the long run.
Fewer Artificial Ingredients
Many sodas contain artificial colors, preservatives, and high-fructose corn syrup, all of which have been linked to various health concerns, including inflammation, metabolic issues, and an increased risk of chronic diseases. Enhanced water often has fewer artificial ingredients, providing a cleaner, more natural alternative to traditional soft drinks.
Curb Cravings
If you enjoy flavored drinks but want to reduce drinking soda, enhanced water provides a more nutritious alternative and still offers a refreshing taste. The light sweetness and variety of available flavors of enhanced waters can help satisfy cravings without the excessive sugar and empty calories in soda, making it easier to maintain a healthier diet.
List of Enhanced Waters
There are many brands and flavors to choose from.
- VitaminWater 0
- vitarain ZERO
- Gatorade Zero
- Smartwater
- Essentia Water
- Hint Water
- LifeWTR
- Zevia Vitamin Tonic
- Flow Alkaline Spring Water
- AquaHydrate
- Aquabless
Nutritional Comparison of Enhanced Waters Versus Soda
This table compares the nutritional values of generic soda against three brands of enhanced water in different flavors.
| Brand | Serving Size | Calories | Vitamins | Nutrients |
| Generic Soda | 20oz | 240 | N/A | N/A |
| VitaminWater Zero Dragonfruit | 20oz | 0 | A, B6, B12, C | Potassium, Selenium, Niacin, Magnesium |
| vitarain ZERO Lemonade | 20oz | 0 | A, C, B6, E | Niacin |
| Propel Zero Glacier Freeze | 28oz | 10 | N/A | Potassium |
Final Thoughts on Switching to Enhanced Water
Swapping soda for enhanced flavored water is a simple yet effective step toward better health, offering hydration, essential nutrients, and fewer harmful ingredients. At The Difference, we help you make smarter choices by tracking your nutrition, hydration, and overall wellness in one place. With our app, you can set goals, monitor progress, and stay motivated on your journey to a healthier lifestyle. Ready to take control of your health? Visit The Difference and start making a lasting difference today!