How to Give up Soda Pop

Giving up soda pop can be a quick way to save 200 or more calories per day. This sacrifice can also improve your diet, help you lose weight gradually and increase energy. If you give up soda pop this can help improve your quality of life, though you may not notice changes immediately. These tips can get you on your way to making a small change that makes great strides in improving your health.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Willpower
• Replacement for soda

1. Give yourself 30 days to decrease your soda intake. Do not be hard on yourself if you slip, as it will take some time to give up your old soda pop habit.

2. Stock your fridge, desk, car or purse with a new replacement drink. This can be bottled or any variety of flavored water. If you need caffeine, consider drinking coffee or tea if you do not already. There are many varieties available. You can also try the flavored instant coffees for a change of pace. Pay close attention to the calorie content of your replacement. It should be less than 50.

3. Try those mini flavored energy packets for water bottles as a soda replacement. Make it up the night before and grab it right out of the fridge in the morning. Have several of them on hand, they are only about 5 to 10 calories each.

4. Try protein, vitamin, tea, immunity and other nutritional waters available. Try them all until you discover one that fits in well with your eating plan.

5. Consider ordering a seltzer water spritzer, juice or lemonade when entertaining or dining out. Remember, you gave up soda pop. Keep in mind you will need to find a new mixer for your cocktails.

6. Reward yourself with a special non-food treat and tell others of your accomplishment after 1 to 2 months of not drinking soda. You should notice cravings decreasing, though it may take awhile.

Tips & Warnings

• Allow yourself to have soda pop once in awhile.
• If you drink caffeinated soda, be aware you may need to wean off of it gradually, otherwise caffeine withdrawal may occur.

[melissalewis]

on 8/18/2009 I am addicted to coffee, first and foremost, but I could stand to quit that nasty, yellow, highly caffeinated soda pop (not naming names)! Good tips.

[40skydiver]

on 7/17/2009 This is such a good idea. Soda just isn't healthy. Thanks for writing!

[believeinfamily]

on 7/9/2009 Great article on how to give up soda pop. 5* I drink about a 6 pack of soda a day. I'm going to try your gradual approach.

[kittycooks]

on 7/4/2009 Soda pop is addicting. Thanks for the tips to give it up!

[Susang6]

on 7/3/2009 Useful tips on giving up soda. I quit the habit a few years ago, and then a had a diet coke the other day. It tasted wonderful...but the caffeine had me up for days. Great article with useful tips.