Summer is officially upon us, and we are feeling the heat! What better way to cool down and get hydrated than a refreshing sparkling (low-calorie!) beverage. Here in the office, we could wax poetic about sparkling water, and take our favorites pretty seriously. Lately, we’ve been loving Spindrift, now available at most grocery stores (we’re looking at you Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Safeway, and Costco). Made with real lemons grown in California, this refreshing delight is only 3 calories! Trying to kick a soda habit? This tart and effervescent beverage may help you get over the hump. To take your sparkling water to the next level, try adding fresh herbs such as mint or basil. Stay cool!

Disclaimer: some Spindrift flavors use a small amount of fruit juice as sweetener (amounting to 9-15 calories). We recommend the unsweetened flavors, such as the lemon, cucumber, and their new Half & Half flavor (lemon juice plus iced tea), especially if on a VLCD. It has also been hypothesized that a sweet-flavored beverage may increase sugar cravings. A word to the wise? Be mindful, when possible, of how any food or beverage makes you feel. If a sweet-flavored beverage increases sugar cravings, opt for unflavored sparkling water (or plain water for that matter).

For similar reading, check out this article on non-nutritive sweeteners.