How to Break a Soda Addiction

According to the National Soft Drink Association, more than 60 percent of public and private high schools provide access to soft drinks. Over 15 billion gallons of soft drinks were consumed in 2000. With all of the access to soda, many people drink more soda than water and create an unhealthy imbalance. Break a soda addiction and enjoy the benefits of a pop-free diet. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Journal
• Water
• Will power

1. Start a drink journal. Keep track of the time of day when soda is the beverage of choice. This can determine your "weak" moments. Note what types of soda are being consumed and how many.
2. Analyze the ingredient list of the soda. Soft drinks with caffeine and sugar can make breaking a soda addiction harder because of a short-lived energy rush.
3. Switch to water. Replace one soda a day with a bottle of water and gradually erase soda altogether. Drink sparkling mineral water if the carbonation fizz is still desired.
4. Go cold turkey for immediate results. Remove all the soda from the home and avoid walking past the beverage in the super market. Caffeine withdrawal symptoms include headaches and even nausea so cold turkey isn't the best option if you want to avoid these symptoms.
5. Choose a low-stress time to break the addiction. If that's not possible, pamper yourself with a special treat each day a soda is not consumed.
6. Set a goal. Pick a realistic date to end drinking soda and stick to it.
7. Spread the word about the goal to break a soda addiction. Telling other people about your goal can increase your success.

Tips & Warnings

• Drink flavored, carbonated water if you find the taste of plain water too flat at first.