Americans consume 38 gallons of soda annually, but the issue goes beyond simply calories: sugar overload can contribute to weight gain, type 2 diabetes, heart disease and poor dental health. There are healthy alternatives that provide the energy and flavor you desire without negatively affecting either your body or performance.

Coffee has been linked with improved cognitive functioning and athletic performance. Additionally, its consumption may help lower risk for obesity and diabetes. Compared to soda which only offers synthetic caffeine compounds that may harm the body, coffee offers natural compounds with no caloric intake that offer many other health benefits for your body and provide sustained energy boosts instead of sudden spikes like those experienced with soda consumption.

Soda contains more sodium and calories than both coffee and tea combined, with some varieties even offering even higher sodium counts and additives to further increase both their caloric intake and sodium level (for instance, Starbucks Doubleshot Energy Coffee Drink has 210 Calories with 2.5 Grams of Fat). Furthermore, their very high Sodium Level.

Coffee may offer many of the same health benefits as so-called energy drinks. Coffee contains antioxidants which protect cells against oxidation and may help combat signs of aging; many find coffee to be the only beverage they can drink regularly without becoming jittery or experiencing digestive issues.

If you enjoy drinking soda, limit yourself to an occasional treat. Enjoy its flavor while adding in fruit to reduce calories and sugar intake. Or make your own homemade version using just a few ingredients!

This recipe uses fresh fruit, simple syrup (made from raw honey and water) and seltzer water to craft an Italian-style coffee soda. Feel free to add cream if you want something sweeter; coconut seltzer adds even more tropical flair for an even tropical experience! Each serving only has 68 calories making this an ideal recipe for weekend brunch with your squad!