I don't drink a lot of soft drinks compared to the general populace, and when I do buy them, I try to avoid the megacorporations and their sugar. Here's my take on a few drinks you might find at your local health food store or specialty market.

Zevia Ginger Ale

If you like ginger and don't mind stevia sweetener, give this a try. It's been my usual soda when I do drink fizzy flavored water. I also like their strawberry, grapefruit, and orange sodas. I am not a huge fan of the colas, but Dr. Zevia is OK if you want a caffeinated kick. These usually run around $5 for a 6-pack, and if I did the math right at my local grocer's, it's cheaper per can than the 10-pack cardboard box unless there's a sale. I almost never buy any unless there is a sale. I am a cheapskate.

Zentopia Mango Sparkling Water

This is more like LaCroix, and while it has that tropical mango flavor, there is a slight bitter taste, doubtless from the advertised 50 mg of CBD oil. I should also note I did not observe any relief from my chronic pain after consumption. I don't know whether that really says anything about the CBD or not. This was also by far the most expensive beverage here at nearly $4.00. Uffda! I bought this mainly because the idea for a soft drink review post was stirring in my mind.

Health-Ade Pop Strawberry Vanilla

The mouth-feel of this beverage is hard to describe. It's somehow thicker than water. It's not syrupy, but there is some sort of slight gel-like texture. Weird. This flavor tastes pretty good in my opinion, but I am not sure about the alleged probiotic benefits. I should also note that this is the only one out of these four that is not a zero-calorie beverage. One can is 35 calories according to the nutrition information chart. Not a lot, but more than nothing if that concerns you. I would consider trying other flavors from this brand.

Nixie Lime Ginger Sparking Water

Not as bland as LaCroix flavored sparkling water, and more pleasant than the Zentopia in that respect, I think. There is a hint of ginger, and a lot of lime. I don't think I'll be seeking this out again, though. I'm glad I only paid 55¢ for the can in the discontinued item bin at my local grocery store, and I think I see why it was there. Why did I try it at all? Well, I did mention that I am a cheapskate...

Your Turn

What is your favorite fizzy drink? Comment below with your suggestions for other sodas I should try!