More and more people are becoming aware of the potential health risks associated with processed and artificial ingredients, so they are searching for healthier options to their favorite drinks. Zevia is an all-natural, zero calorie soda made with plant-based stevia which meets these needs.
But is this seemingly healthy beverage, do actually Zevia bad for you? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is Zevia?
Zevia is a brand of naturally sweetened soda and other beverages. It’s made with stevia leaf extract, which means it has zero calories, no sugar and no artificial sweeteners – so you can enjoy guilt-free refreshment!
What Is Zevia Made Of?
Zevia is made from natural ingredients like carbonated water, citric acid, natural flavors and stevia leaf extract. It also contains trace amounts of minerals like magnesium and potassium to help support electrolyte balance in your body. All of these ingredients have been deemed safe by the FDA. So what’s the catch?
Potential Side Effects Of Stevia
The main ingredient in Zevia is stevia leaf extract, which has been used as a sweetener since ancient times but has recently gained popularity due to its low calorie count and lack of side effects. However, some studies have linked high doses of stevia consumption to headaches, nausea and other digestive issues. It may also interfere with blood sugar levels in people who have diabetes or hypoglycemia so it should be consumed with caution if you fall into either category.
Caffeine Content In Zevia
Another potential downside to drinking too much Zevia is its caffeine content; depending on the flavor you choose, one can contain anywhere from 0mg-30mg of caffeine per 12 oz serving (the average cup of coffee contains 95 mg).
While this amount may not seem significant compared to coffee or energy drinks, it can still lead to side effects such as jitters or insomnia if too much is consumed over time. Additionally, caffeine can make some medications less effective so it’s important to check with your doctor before consuming large amounts of Zevia (or any caffeinated beverage).
The Different Types of Zevia
Zevia soda is a zero-calorie, natural soda made with stevia leaf extract. It comes in more than 20 flavors including cola, ginger beer, and cream soda.
Cola Flavors: Cola, Cola Zero, Dr. Zevia, and Cherry Cola
Fruit Flavors: Lemon Lime Twist, Grapefruit Citrus, Cranberry Lime and Pink Grapefruit
Cream Soda Flavors: Cream Soda, Vanilla Cream and Orange Cream
Ginger Beer Flavors: Ginger Root Beer and Black Cherry Ginger Ale
Mixed Berry Flavors: Mixed Berry and Mountain Zevia
Other Flavor Options: Lemon-Lime Sparkling Water; Orange Blossom Honey; Kola Nut; Mango Ginger; Pomegranate; Raspberry Lime; Strawberry Rhubarb; Spicy Ginger Beer & Tangerine.
What Flavors of Zevia are There?
There are a variety of flavors of Zevia, including cola, fruit, cream soda, ginger beer and mixed berry varieties. Cola flavors include cola, cola zero, Dr. Zevia and cherry cola. Fruit flavors include lemon lime twist, grapefruit citrus, cranberry lime and pink grapefruit.
Cream soda flavors include cream soda, vanilla cream and orange cream. Ginger beer flavors include ginger root beer and black cherry ginger ale. Mixed berry flavors include mixed berry and mountain zevia. Other flavor options include lemon-lime sparkling water; orange blossom honey; kola nut; mango ginger; pomegranate; raspberry lime; strawberry rhubarb; spicy ginger beer & tangerine.
Bottom Line: Is Zevia Bad For You?
Overall, there isn’t enough evidence right now to definitively say that drinking Zevia regularly will cause harm; however, those who are sensitive to certain ingredients or prone to headaches/digestive issues should proceed with caution when trying new products like this one.
Additionally, keep an eye on your caffeine intake if you drink multiple cans per day – while 30mg isn’t a lot in comparison to other beverages out there it could still lead to unwanted side effects over time. Ultimately though it’s up to each individual consumer whether or not they choose to consume this product – just be sure to do your research beforehand!
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