The POP stop!!

Soda Pop!

Health risks and weight gain… terms that seem like elevator music to some. It’s fair to say that most Americans know that Soda pop isn’t a health promoting drink by now.  Just one soda a day can add up to 15 pounds of fat gained over the course of a year. 

Ahh, I can here the diet pop drinkers throwing there “yeah but’s” up in the air now.  Sorry guys, even diet soda shows a waistline increase up to 70% greater than non diet soda drinkers.   

Have we really gotten so out of control and reckless with our health that we need a Mayor to act as parent and enforcer?  Come on, isn’t it time we start to take responsibility for ourselves and the choices we make. 

Healthy choices for the mind, body and spirit are OUR individual responsibility. 

This body you have been given is the only one you get in this lifetime… and the ONLY place you have to live. 

How are you showing it love? 

Here are a few simple and flavorful soda pop alternatives:

Ice tea~

There is nothing like a fresh pitcher of ice tea in the refrigerator.  

• -I have long been a fan of Paradise Tropical black tea, Yerba Mate Royale (which you can get a Wholefoods) and Jasmine Green tea.  
• -For those of you who don’t care for caffeine there are endless Herbal options to choose from. 
• -If you like a little sweetness I use a sugar substitute called Stevia. It has no calories, zero glycemic index (no carbs), no artificial ingredients and no effect on blood sugar.

Infused water~

Cut up your favorite fruit or veggie and leave in a pitcher of water for at least 3 hours.  

• I like to use lemon and lime together 
• Orange slices, or cucumber are refreshing and taste amazing.
• You can add herbs like mint for a little extra flavor if you’d like.    

Soda water w/ fresh Juice~

Toss that Soda pop and make your own healthy Fizz-tastic version. 

Fill a glass with seltzer and add:

•  Pineapple juice with fresh mint (pineapples contain several vitamins and enzymes, are an anti-inflammatory, and encourages the healing of bruises and swelling in the body)  
• - Cherry juice (high in antioxidants, natural anti-inflammatory and also contains melatonin)
• - Watermelon Juice (rich in electrolytes and antioxidants) 

Fresh Juice~

• -Watermelon juice (cut watermelon into cubes, minus seeds and put into blender)
• -Grapefruit juice (get out your citrus juicer and twist)
• -Lemonade (lemon, citrus juicer, ice, add stevia to sweeten)

Water~  Voila!

I hope you try and enjoy.  If you have any suggestions yourself PLEASE send them in to me. 

Live Love Vibration~ Meredith