While drinking water is essential, not everyone likes the taste of plain H2O. Beverages like soda or energy drinks may seem like a fun alternative, but they often contain added sugar and extra calories that aren’t good for your body in the long run. Fortunately, over the past decade, a wide range of healthy drink brands have emerged, offering delicious drinks with added health benefits, such as electrolytes for hydration or probiotics for gut health.
To help you find a substitute for your favorite sugary refreshment, we’ve spent the last few years testing drinks to find the best healthy drinks whenever the craving for a more “fun” drink arises.
What is the best healthy drink overall?
For this list, we didn’t choose the best healthy drink overall because each drink offers something unique. Some contain probiotics, while others offer magnesium or electrolytes. We felt it would be unfair to pick the best overall and instead opted for each drink’s individual category.
The best healthy drinks of 2026
Benefits
- Rich in fiber
- Supports digestive health
- Low sugar content
- Vegan
- Gluten free
- Non-GMO
- All flavors are delicious
- Ideal in non-alcoholic cocktails
Disadvantages
- Some reviewers complain that it’s not sweet enough for them.
- Some would like it to be more sparkling.
- More expensive than regular soda, about $3 per can
Why we love it: Created in 2018, you’ve probably seen Olipop pop up in your grocery or health food store. The soda contains prebiotics, botanicals and plant fiber to support digestive health. It’s also low in sugar, high in fiber, low in calories, vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, and it contains no artificial sweeteners, preservatives, flavors, or colors. It is marketed as a “new type of soda” that is supposed to be healthy while still tasting good.
I’ve been a fan of Olipop for years. The brand recently sent me their Tropical Punch, Vintage Cola, Root Beer, Cream Soda, Classic Grape, Orange Juice, Doctor Goodwin, and Lemon Lime Sodas. But I also purchased the following flavors myself: Peaches and Cream, Strawberry Vanilla, Cherry Cola, Watermelon Lime, Banana Cream, Cherry Vanilla, Apple Crisp, and Ridge Rush. I enjoyed them all and found them to be perfect in mocktails, whether as the base of the drink or added to a non-alcoholic liqueur.
My favorites are Strawberry Vanilla, Orange Juice, and Lemon Lime.
Who is it best for: This soda is ideal for people who enjoy the flavor and fizz of soda, but want to avoid added sugar and calories while still getting extra fiber.
Who shouldn’t get it: People with certain digestive disorders should use caution when drinking prebiotic sodas. Be sure to consult your doctor before trying them.
Benefits
- Contains prebiotics
- Low sugar content
- Low in calories
- Caffeine free
- Contains no artificial preservatives, flavors or colors
Disadvantages
- Maybe too sweet for some people
- May not be a good choice for people with digestive issues
Why we love it: Launched by health and wellness brand Bloom Nutrition in July 2025, Bloom Pop is a prebiotic soda with just 20 calories and 3 to 4 grams of sugar per can. It is also caffeine-free and contains no artificial preservatives, flavors or colors.
The brand sent me all of their flavors to try, and my favorites are Shirley Temple and Raspberry Lemonade. There’s also Strawberry Cream, Watermelon Lime, and Classic Orange, all carbonated.
Who is it best for: I would recommend this soda alternative to people who want to add prebiotics. These flavors are also sweeter than other alternatives I’ve tried, so if you have a sweet tooth that isn’t satisfied by the other drinks on this list, Bloom Pop may work for you.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you suffer from digestive issues, ask your doctor if prebiotic sodas are right for you.
Benefits
- Contains ingredients intended to improve your mood and calm you down
- Low in calories
- Low sugar content
Disadvantages
- Maybe not for those who don’t like more robust flavors
- Not for those who don’t like soft drinks
Why we love it: In 2017, Recess launched to offer drinks designed to calm you down. In addition to Recess, the brand’s hemp and adaptogen drink, there are also the Recess Mood magnesium and adaptogen, alcohol-free Recess Zero Proof and Recess Mood Powder lines.
To test, Recess sent me their Recess Mood variety pack in pink strawberry, blood orange, peach ginger and black cherry flavors. They contain Magnesium L‑Threonate, L‑Theanine, and Lemon Balm to help you relax and unwind. I really enjoyed all of these drinks, but my favorite from the Mood range was the Strawberry Rose.
Who is it best for: The Recess Mood range is ideal for people who want a low sugar, low calorie drink that helps their body relax.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you have a health condition that affects your magnesium levels — such as kidney failure or certain bleeding disorders — or makes your body sensitive to magnesium, consult your doctor before trying this drink.
Benefits
- Low sugar content
- Low in calories
- Gluten free
- Vegan
- Contains no artificial flavors
Disadvantages
- May not be a good choice for people with digestive issues or algae allergies.
Why we love it: Inspired by the nutrient-rich marine foods she ate in Japan, Alissa Miky founded OoMee in 2019. “OoMee harnesses the power of red algae that has supported wellness in Japan for over 400 years,” Miky told CNET. “What makes our sea plant drink unique is how it naturally works on your body: agar-agar (in red algae) provides satiety support to help you feel full and satisfied, while our proprietary Seabiotics blend promotes overall well-being and balance. It’s like having the ancient wisdom of the ocean in a modern, refreshing format.”
Low sugar, 20 calories, vegan, gluten-free, and with no artificial flavors or carbonation, OoMee is the only U.S. company to have partnered with the Japanese agar-agar market leader, who has created special processing technology to ensure high-quality agar-agar.
The brand sent me their three flavors to try, and I enjoyed both the taste and texture of all of them, but my favorite is Blueberry and Elderflower.
Who is it best for: I would recommend this drink to anyone looking for a fun, non-carbonated drink that is low in calories and sugar, but still tastes great. It also doesn’t have a seaweed taste, so there’s nothing to worry about.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you have digestive problems, ask your doctor if a drink containing fiber is right for you. I would also avoid this drink if you are allergic to seaweed or agar-agar.
Benefits
- Low sugar content
- Low in calories
- 6 grams of prebiotic fiber per can
- Smooth like regular iced tea
- Vegan
- Gluten free
- Kosher certified
Disadvantages
- Contains caffeine
- The included prebiotic fibers may not be suitable for people with digestive issues
Why we love it: If you crave the nostalgic taste of a can of iced tea in the summer but don’t want all that extra sugar, Halfday’s non-carbonated iced teas are a great alternative. Inspired by co-founder Kayvon Jahanbakhsh’s battle with ulcerative colitis, Halfday was created to usher in a new era of iced teas, with 6 grams of prebiotic fiber, fewer calories and 3 to 5 grams of sugar. They are also vegan, gluten-free and kosher certified. Note that depending on the flavor, Halfday contains between 25 and 50 mg of caffeine per can.
I tried the following flavors from the brand: lemon tea, peach tea, green tea, raspberry tea, sweet tea, and classic half and half (a mix of iced tea and lemonade). The only one I haven’t tried is the limited edition tropical tea. My favorites are peach tea and the classic half and half.
Who is it best for: Half a day would be ideal for anyone who loves iced tea but wants less sugar in their drink and extra prebiotic fiber.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you have digestive issues, ask your doctor if you should consume prebiotic iced teas. Additionally, if you are sensitive to caffeine, Halfday may not be the right solution for you.
Benefits
- Contains probiotics and postbiotics for gut health
- Contains natural antioxidants
- Made with real fruit juice
- Vegan
- Gluten free
- Organic
- Non-GMO
Disadvantages
- Richer in sugar
- Not for those who don’t like tart flavors
Why we love it: Health-Ade was founded in 2012 with the goal of making high-quality, flavorful kombucha that is easy to purchase. Since then, Health-Ade has become an iconic gut health drink, with its instantly recognizable amber-colored bottles. The brand has expanded to offer kombucha in cans, bright kombucha with added benefits, and the gut-healthy SunSip soda. Its drinks are vegan, organic, gluten-free and GMO-free.
The brand offers many flavors. I tried the rose apple, mint lime, berry lemonade and passion fruit tangerine, as well as the flavors bursts of strawberry and citrus to strengthen the immune system. Over the holiday season, the brand released their Health-Ade Holiday Cheers in ginger, vanilla, and allspice flavors, and it was one of my favorites.
Who is it best for: Flavor-wise, Health-Ade is great for anyone who likes tangy flavors. The drink is also ideal for those looking to improve their gut health with probiotics.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you have gut health issues, kombucha may not be for you. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking a sip. Health-Ade also contains 8 to 15 mg of caffeine per serving, about the amount in a cup of decaf coffee, so be careful if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
Benefits
- Delicious flavor
- Easy to find
- Affordable
Disadvantages
- Added sugar
- Coconut water is not organic
Why we love it: Inspired by Brazil’s love of coconut water, Vita Coco was launched in 2003 to help popularize the drink in the United States. Coconuts come from small farms located in tropical regions; Flash-pasteurized, vitamin C and 1% sugar are added to lock in flavor and freshness before being packaged in a Tetra Pak.
In addition to its original flavor, Vita Coco offers pineapple and peach mango flavors. I’ve tried pineapple, but sometimes it’s a little too sweet for me. The brand also offers Farmers Organic coconut water, its only organic product, and Extra Coconut with coconut puree.
Vita Coco is a great option for staying hydrated without the added sugars and artificial colors found in traditional sports and energy drinks. It’s also full of electrolytes.
Who is it best for: If you’re not looking for coconut water that’s 100% raw, unpasteurized, and more affordable than Harmless Harvest, Vita Coco may be the coconut water for you.
Who shouldn’t get it: This product is pasteurized, non-organic (unless it is Farmers Organic) and contains 1% added sugar. If any of these factors bother you and you’d prefer otherwise, you might want to try Harmless Harvest, but you’ll pay more.
Benefits
- USDA Organic
- An ingredient
- No added sugar
- Good source of potassium and other electrolytes
- Fair For Life certified
Disadvantages
- Costs slightly more than other coconut waters on the market
Why we love it: Harmless Harvest launched in 2011 with its Organic Coconut Water, a great all-natural sports drink, which you’ll probably recognize as “pink coconut water.” It is USDA organic, has a Fair For Life certification (for people-centered, ethical and responsible business partnerships), contains 100% recycled plastic bottles and its coconuts are certified regenerative organic at the bronze level. The drink also contains an ingredient, Nam Hom coconut grown in Thailand, with natural electrolytes and no added sugars. It starts out clear but turns pink over time because its antioxidants naturally react with light. The brand also does not thermally pasteurize its product.
Out of all their products, I tried Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water, Organic Sparkling Coconut Water, and Organic Coconut Smoothie. My favorite is its original organic coconut water, which has a delicious, fresh, pure flavor that I love to sip after a workout.
Who is it best for: Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water is best for those looking to spend a little more on coconut water because it is 100% coconut water with no additional ingredients. It’s also great for providing electrolytes before or after a workout.
Who shouldn’t get it: People with health conditions sensitive to electrolytes like potassium should consult their doctor before consuming this drink.
Benefits
- Promotes relaxation
- Vegan
- Made with organic ingredients
Disadvantages
- Expensive, about $7 a bottle
Why we love it: Vybes is a “mood drink” founded in 2018. It is made with magnesium glycinate, a highly absorbable form of magnesium designed to help the body manage stress and combat fatigue while giving you a boost of energy. You may remember that Vybes sold CBD drinks, but these were discontinued due to state regulations.
I tried the pineapple, passionfruit, and blueberry-mint flavors, and my body felt more relaxed right after I finished drinking. I also enjoyed the unique flavor combinations and thought they were tasty. Other flavors I haven’t tried include Blackberry Hibiscus, Blood Orange Lime, Ginger Peach, and Strawberry Lavender.
Who is it best for: Vybes is ideal for anyone who wants a drink that helps their body relax and regain balance. I like to treat myself to a bottle after a stressful day.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you have a health condition that makes your body sensitive to magnesium, you may want to avoid this drink. Check with your doctor. It’s sweetened with erythritol and stevia (no added sugar), and some people may be more sensitive to certain artificial sweeteners, which can cause gastrointestinal upset. Also note that the drink is more expensive, around $7, making it less economical.
Benefits
- Vegan
- Gluten free
- Can be prepared instantly with just water
- Does not require separate milk or sweetener
- Contains adaptogens
- Some drinks are tested by third parties (chai, matcha and sleeptime)
- About $2 per latte
Disadvantages
- Some drinks contain caffeine
Why we love it: Founded in 2018 and loved by Meghan Markle and Oprah, Clevr Blends creates instant plant-based SuperLattes and SuperTeas made with functional ingredients like adaptogens, probiotics, natural electrolytes and superfoods to improve mood, stress, sleep and energy.
From its SuperLatte line, which can be made hot or iced, I tried the matcha, chai, sleeptime, cocoa rose and golden latte. They also offer Honey Pistachio Matcha, Honey Lavender Matcha, Coffee, Mocha, London Fog and Chill Chai. SuperTeas are available in Strawberry Lemonade, Yuzu Lemonade and Green Mango flavors. The promised effects of chai, matcha and sleeptime SuperLattes were evaluated in a 12-week third-party clinical study.
My number one favorite is the turmeric-based Golden SuperLatte. It’s the best “golden milk” I’ve ever tasted and it’s a drink I keep repurchasing. My second favorite is Clevr Blends matcha, but I’m sensitive to caffeine so don’t repurchase often.
Who is it best for: Clevr SuperLattes are best for people who want an instant hot drink packed with adaptogens, mushrooms, probiotics and more.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or a child, Clevr Blends states that you should consult your doctor before consuming the beverage. If you are sensitive to monk fruit extract or erythritol, a sugar alcohol, you may also want to avoid this drink. Note that some of the brand’s drinks contain caffeine.
Benefits
- Truly soothing without drowsiness
- Recyclable packaging
- Made with real botanical extracts
Disadvantages
- More expensive than average canned drinks
- The subtle sweetness may not hit you if you’re used to sugary drinks
Why we love it: Moment is one of the few drinks I’ve tried that claims to help you calm down and actually works. The brand uses adaptogens like L-theanine and ashwagandha to promote mindfulness and relaxation. Every time I have one of these drinks, I start to feel calm within about 20 minutes. It also tastes incredibly delicious, almost like a boxed dessert without being too sweet.
Who is it best for: For anyone wanting a functional drink to relax, especially in the afternoon or as part of their before-bed ritual. I would also recommend it to people looking to cut down on caffeine or alcohol, as it also makes a great mocktail.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you have a known sensitivity to adaptogens or are already taking supplements containing ashwagandha, it’s worth checking with your doctor first. Since the purpose of this drink is to help you relax, I also wouldn’t recommend it to anyone looking for an energy boost.
Benefits
- Targeted blends for digestion, relaxation and allergy relief
- Clean Ingredients with Herbs and Adaptogens
- No added sugars
Disadvantages
- Earthy flavor might not appeal to everyone
- Available only in a 12-pack sampler online (available individually at all Erewhon and Sprouts Farmers Market locations nationwide)
Why we love it: Erha is a functional drink that not only hydrates you, but also supports your feeling. It offers three drinks to relieve common aches and pains like restlessness, bloating, and allergies. Whether you have a stomach ache, are a little stuffy, or overstimulated, Erha’s Intention Set is designed with plant-based ingredients that meet those needs. I tried all three flavors and each felt like a mini ritual in my daily routine.
Who is it best for: People looking for relief from stomach issues, allergies or stress. This range of drinks offers daily support.
Who shouldn’t get it: The flavors are subtle and grassy, so if you like bold, sweet flavors, this drink is not for you.
Benefits
- Loaded with electrolytes
- Low sugar content
- Clean Ingredients
- Subtle and refreshing flavors
Disadvantages
- Low sugar may not be suitable for high endurance sports
Why we love it: Be Love delivers hydration and functionality in a clean, elevated way. Each provides electrolytes, while other ingredients like magnesium help support mood and stress. I love that these drinks also help balance blood pH. I often take them after my workouts or when I need a break from writing, and they help me feel replenished without the sugar rush I feel after drinking energy drinks.
Who is it best for: People looking for an electrolyte drink with clean ingredients. Also ideal for those looking for a drink of r recovery after training.
Who shouldn’t get it: If you’re looking for an electrolyte drink that’s high in sodium or sugar (the ones you’d use after endurance sports), Be Love may be too light.
Benefits
- Clean tasting water
- A bold brand image
- Ideal for social environments
Disadvantages
- Does not offer any functional ingredients
Why we love it: I love everything about the brand of this drink; It’s really scary scenario find out what a wellness drink should look like. It’s just water (or flavored still and sparkling water) in a large can that looks like it belongs at a heavy metal concert. Brand aside, I like to keep them in my fridge whenever I get bored of plain water. The flavored options have no added sugars and the plain water version tastes super crispy.
Who is it best for: Ideal for those who want to avoid sugary drinks, or even for those who want to limit their alcohol intake but miss the feel of a full-sized can.
Who shouldn’t get it: Not for people looking to get additional nutritional benefits (like added vitamins or adaptogens).
The best healthy drinks compared
| Healthy drink | Beverage category | Dietary notes | Carbonated | Price range | Sizes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Olipop | Prebiotic soda | Low sugar, high fiber, vegan, low calorie, gluten free, non-GMO, paleo, keto friendly | Yes | $3 to $36 | single, pack of 12 |
| Recreational atmosphere | Magnesium drink | Low in calories and sugar, contains adaptogens and other mood-enhancing ingredients | Yes | $5 to $45 | single, pack of 8 and 12 |
| Santé-Ade | Kombucha | Vegan, organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, contains probiotics, postbiotics and antioxidants, made from real fruit juice | Yes, naturally | $4 to $50 | single, pack of 12 |
| Harmless harvest | Coconut water | USDA organic, no added sugar, gluten free, no synthetic colors, no artificial sweeteners or flavors, no dairy | No | $4 to $96 | single, pack of 6, 12 and 24 |
| Vybes | Magnesium drink | Vegan, non-GMO and organic ingredients | No | ~$8 to $60 | simple, pack of 6 and 12 |
| Smart Blends | Functional slats | Vegan, gluten-free, mushrooms and adaptogens, probiotics | No | $26 | 12 ounce bag |
| Vita Coco | Coconut water | Non-GMO, gluten-free, contains electrolytes, vegan, less than 1% sugar | No | ~$3-27 | simple, pack of 6 and 12 |
| Moment | Adaptogenic drink | No caffeine, added sugars or artificial flavors, gluten-free, dairy-free, grain-free, nut-free, keto and Whole30 friendly | No | $40 to $77 | Packs of 12 and 24 |
| Ehra | Functional drink | Vegan, gluten-free, contains rythritol and natural flavors | No | $60 | pack of 12 |
| Be Love | Electrolyte drink | Vegan, gluten-free, low sugar, no artificial flavors | No | $36 | pack of 12 |
| Liquid death | Alternative to water | Gluten-free, vegan, sugar-free and caffeine-free | It depends | ~$2-$19 | Single, pack of 8 and 12 |
| Flower Pop | Prebiotic soda | Low sugar, low calories, caffeine free | Yes | ~$2 | Bachelor |
| Half Day Iced Tea | Prebiotic Iced Tea | Low sugar, low calorie, vegan, gluten free, kosher certified | No | $3 to $30 | Single, pack of 12 |
When it comes to choosing the right healthy drink for your tastes and preferences, there are several factors to consider. Below we describe them so you can find the drink that suits you.
Dietary notes
If you’re following a specific diet or looking for specific ingredients, this can help you find the drink that’s best for you. Examples include products that are gluten-free, vegan, nut-free, low-sugar or sugar-free, and without artificial flavors or sweeteners. You’ll also want to think about what’s added to the drink, such as magnesium, different botanicals, adaptogens, and electrolytes, and what would best suit your lifestyle or health concerns.
Amelia Ti, a registered dietitian and diabetes educator in New York who is also on CNET’s medical review panel, adds: “Some adaptogens, for example, may not be suitable for people who are pregnant or those taking certain medications.” »
Price range
Some healthy drinks cost more than others, especially if you want to buy a pack. Consider your budget, how many people you’re buying for, and how often you plan to purchase these drinks. It’s also worth thinking about how often you buy a coffee, tea, juice or smoothie from a local establishment. Maybe buying these drinks instead will help you save money.
Sizes
Are you considering buying just one can of your favorite health drink when you go grocery shopping? Or do you want to buy a 6 or 12 pack for your whole family? Think about how many people you’re looking for and how often you want to sip the drink. Also, if you plan to keep them cold, consider how much space you have in your refrigerator.
Flavors
The best part of trying new drinks is finding your favorite flavor. If you’re trying to cut down on your soda intake, you may want a drink that replicates your favorite soda flavor. Or, if you prefer bold, fruity flavors, consider drinks that offer them. The best part is that there really is something for everyone.
Carbonation
Do you like sparkling drinks or prefer your drinks still? This will also help you narrow down your selection. If you like healthier soda drinks because you want to cut down on your soda intake, consider something fizzy. However, if you don’t like the carbonation feeling, a still coconut water might be better.
As wellness editors and editors, we’ve spent years testing healthy drinks to see what they deliver, whether they deliver what they promise, and whether they taste good. We narrowed it down to specific drinks that stood out to us and that we would continue to buy again and again. The factors we considered were dietary ratings, added ingredients, price, carbonation, drink category, and sizes available.
Although everyone should make sure to drink enough water every day, other healthy drinks include green tea, kombucha, kefir, fruit smoothies, and coconut water.
Water is the best liquid to drink every day because it is essential for your body to function.
Electrolyte-rich drinks, like coconut water, are great for replenishing your body and helping you rehydrate, especially after a workout.
“The term ‘unhealthy’ can be subjective because it can depend on the person’s health status,” says Ti. “Most unhealthy drinks are those high in added sugars, artificial ingredients, or stimulants with no nutritional value, such as sugary sodas or highly caffeinated energy drinks.”
Signs of dehydration may include dark urine, fatigue, dry mouth, headache, muscle cramps, constipation and dizziness.
