Quitting Sugar? Sip on These Low-Sugar and Sugar-Free Drinks

Put down that beverage! When trying to lose weight it’s important to pay attention to all of the ways we consume calories, and often our favorite drinks are so tasty because of added sweeteners. Unfortunately the trade off doesn’t quite seem to satiate those sweet cravings. Swapping your vanilla latte for a bottled water does not really do the trick!

If you’re trying to cut back on sugar, we have the solutions you’re looking for. Get ready to indulge in some healthy alternatives. 

Craving: Bottled Sweet Tea
Substitute: True Lemon Peach Iced Tea

Usually the second ingredient in most bottled sweet teas is sugar - that means they contain a lot! Not only is our peach iced tea a great swap, but it doesn’t contain any artificial sweeteners or flavors. You’re trading a bottle that could contain up to 45 grams of sugar for a drink with one teeny gram instead. It’s amazing how just a little sweetness can go such a long way.

Craving: Mocha or Hot Chocolate
Substitute: Chai Tea Latte or Cambric

Chocolate syrup is full of sugar, and can pack in as many grams as a can of full-calorie soda (sometimes even more). Chai often includes a little added sugar or natural sweetener, but it’s significantly less. If you are still craving that warm, rich drink, try ordering a cambric. Traditionally made with brewed black tea and steamed milk, it’s delicious and still just as satisfying. Still need a little more to get you through the craving? Ask for a splash (just a splash) of vanilla. 

Craving: Frozen Margarita or Mixed Cocktail 
Substitute: Tequila with Soda Water & True Lime or On the Rocks 

It’s shocking how much added sugar is in cocktail mixers, especially blended drinks. A great way to cut back on drinking sugar with your booze is to drink it with soda water instead, or on the rocks. If it’s too strong just with ice, ask for a splash of soda or cut it with water and a packet of True Lime or True Orange. Just be sure to ask for sparkling soda water (not tonic), as the latter is just as bad as drinking regular soda. 

Craving: Soda
Substitute: True Citrus

One can of soda can pack in up to 40 grams of sugar, which is already above what the American Heart Association recommends for maximum daily added sugars. Switching to diet isn’t a much better choice, as people who choose the low-calorie version actually consume more calories throughout the day and are at risk for other health issues. Carry True Citrus products with you at all times, just in case you have an unexpected craving. 

Craving: Energy Drink
Substitute: Cold Brewed Coffee

With energy drinks you’ll crash not only from the caffeine high but also the high amounts of sugar. If pounding an energy drink in the morning is the only thing that will wake you up, try switching to cold brewed coffee instead. Because it’s brewed more slowly at a cooler temperature, the resulting drink is much stronger but very smooth. If you still need something to balance the coffee flavor, add a splash of cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Don’t like coffee? We have you covered with True Lemon Energys, healthy energy drink alternative. 

Craving: Milkshake
Substitute: Yogurt Smoothie

A milkshake is made up of sugar, sugar, and more sugar (with sugar on top). If you’re dying for that sweet and refreshing blend of flavors, make yourself a smoothie at home instead. Add dates or a banana for sweetness, plain Greek yogurt (for that ice-cream-like creaminess), a scoop of peanut butter and a handful of cacao nibs. You may enjoy the healthier version even better than the original. These are some great ingredients to get your smoothie started.

Looking for some other great food swaps? Check out these simple solutions to make your meals even healthier.