Even in some of the healthiest homes, there are those who just like to drink soda. Commercial soda, as many people know, is comprised of about 90% water and high fructose corn syrup, stabilizers, preservatives and chemically-produced flavors.
Not to mention that the waste created by plastic bottles and cans places an additional burden on our already-overrun landfills. But…. this does not mean that you need to throw a soda fit or sink into the soda blues…. there is a really tasty option to consider that will actually make you feel good about drinking something other than water. Even better, you can make it yourself with all natural ingredients.
Here are two great commercial soda alternatives to try that will save your waistline, your pocketbook and the environment.
Hibiscus Ginger Ale
If you happen to grow hibiscus flowers you can use the dried flowers to make a lovely flavored tea. When you mix the tea with ginger, you have a tasty and refreshing drink.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of organic hibiscus flowers
3/4 cup coconut crystals
1/4 cup grated ginger root
Juice from 1/2 fresh organic lemon
Pinch of Himalayan salt
Directions:
- Combine the flowers, ginger root, sugar, lemon juice, salt and 1 cup of filtered water in a small saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Stir to be sure that all the coconut sugar has dissolved.
- Strain all of the syrup into a glass jar; squeeze the solids to get the most flavor.
- Discard the flowers and ginger root.
- To make soda, mix 3 tablespoons of syrup with 8 ounces of carbonated water.
- Store in the fridge and use within a few days for best results.
Citrus Soda
If you like energizing drinks, this one is for you. Packed with vitamin C and a refreshing taste that will satisfy your senses, this homemade soda is sure to please.
Ingredients:
1/2 grapefruit
1/2 orange
2 limes
1 cup of coconut crystals
Directions:
- Use a vegetable peeler to remove the zest from the fruit.
- Cut the fruit in half and extract the juice with a juice squeezer.
- Pour the juice into a glass measuring cup and add enough filtered water to make one cup of liquid.
- Combine the liquid zest and coconut sugar in a small saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Remove when all of the sugar is dissolved.
- Let the mixture cool and then strain into a glass jar.
- Stir 3 tablespoons into cold carbonated water to make a delicious summertime treat.
- Store in the fridge and use within 3 days for best results.
Don’t Forget
Always be sure to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily, in addition to these great tasting soda alternatives.
– The Alternative Daily
