You probably don’t think of a cold pop as a health tonic. However, there are some new kids on the fizzy block. Are prebiotic and probiotic sodas the new way to enjoy a refreshing beverage without guilt?
These new products contain some serious benefits amid their carbonated goodness. Here are seven brands to know and how they can improve your health.
Whether you are looking for low-sugar, Whole 30-compliant, or even something to serve as a mock-tail, these brands have you covered and the flavors will have your tastebuds celebrating.
What Are the Benefits of Prebiotics and Probiotics?
Prebiotics and probiotics have recently made big headlines on the health food scene. First, here are a few definitions you need to understand:
- Prebiotics: Soluble fiber that you do not digest. It acts as food for your intestinal microbiome — colonies of good bacteria that live in your intestines and play vital roles in keeping you healthy.
- Probiotics: The microorganisms themselves, found in fermented foods, which get lost over time. Dietary changes can replenish them.
A diet rich in pre- and probiotics has the immediate benefit of reducing bloating and gastrointestinal distress. Over time, improving your diet with more of both can enhance your immunity and mood.
What Makes Prebiotic and Probiotic Sodas Healthy?
Pre- and probiotic sodas are healthy because they make it easy to absorb more of these substances. They’re also designed with your well-being in mind.
For example, many brands use natural stevia as a sweetener. Sales of this substance increased by over 10% over the past year, as it comes from a plant source and doesn’t contribute to diabetes risk. While regular colas are full of sugar, these new alternatives go lighter on your pancreas, your insulin-producing organ.
7 Pre- and Probiotic Sodas to Try
Here are seven brands of pre- and probiotic sodas you should add to your fridge on your next shopping trip.
1. Olipop
Olipop is chock-full of healthy stuff and has seven all-natural botanical ingredients. It contains prebiotics from chicory root, artichoke and kudzu to nourish your intestinal microbiome. Each can also provides 9 grams of fiber with only 2.5 grams of sugar.
2. Poppi
Apple cider vinegar is a fabulous source of pre- and probiotics, but there’s a catch — it has an overpowering sour flavor that will pucker your mouth like sucking on a lemon. However, Poppi found a way to make it delicious, and it adds a tablespoon to every can of brew. There are 10 flavors to choose from and only 5 grams of sugar and 25 calories per can, so you’ll feel good pairing this pop with dinner.
3. Culture POP
Culture POP uses a non-GMO strain of probiotics to improve your gastrointestinal health and reduce gas and bloating. It offers seven wacky flavor combinations, like strawberry and rhubarb. All the juices are pasteurized, so they’re safe even for pregnant women. Unlike kombucha, these blends are shelf-stable and don’t need refrigeration.
4. Health-Ade
Health-Ade might be best known for its kombucha. However, its Pop soda line offers seven fabulous flavors with plant-based prebiotics and natural antioxidants to keep you feeling your best.
5. The Secret Nature of Fruit
This company keeps fruit as the primary focus, with 15% juice in each can. These brews are an excellent vitamin C and probiotics source, doing double duty to boost your immune system.
6. Humm
Humm recently launched a probiotic soda line. Offering flavors from lemon-lime to berry cream. These little cans contain 2 billion live organisms per can each, have zero sugar and are keto-friendly.
7. Wild Tonic
Wild Tonic takes a different approach to nonalcoholic soda-like refreshers with its mocktail line. Choose from a classic Mule, Paloma, or signature Bee’s Knees or Persephone series. These drinks are slightly higher in calories at 50 per can because of honey but are 100% natural with the perfect hint of sweetness.
Drink to Your Health
Did you think all cola was bad for you? Pre- and probiotic sodas offer some impressive health benefits. Try some to elevate your drinking experience.
About the Author:
Mia Barnes is a health and wellness writer with a passion for nutrition and mindful eating. Mia is also the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body + Mind Magazine, an online healthy living publication. When not writing, you can find Mia reading mystery novels or practicing yoga.