Prebiotic sodas, marketed as gut-friendly alternatives to traditional soft drinks, are rapidly gaining popularity. These beverages often contain less sugar and include ingredients like inulin, a plant-based fiber typically extracted from chicory root.
Unlike regular or diet sodas, prebiotic sodas claim to support digestive health and reduce inflammation. Some nutrition experts back these benefits, but others caution that scientific evidence is still limited.
Research from the National Library of Medicine notes that while inulin is considered safe by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, it can cause digestive discomfort in people with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Despite differing opinions, prebiotic sodas have seen remarkable growth. According to data from NielsenIQ, U.S. sales surged from \$33 million to \$777 million in just three years.
“You’re looking at 50-plus grams of sugar in a can of soda, versus five grams of sugar in a Poppi or an Olipop,” said nutritionist Courtney Swan. “So, I think long term, the trend of having lower sugar sodas will probably stay.”
The trend has attracted major beverage companies. PepsiCo recently acquired Poppi, a leading prebiotic soda brand, in a deal worth more than \$1 billion.
In addition to prebiotic sodas, cannabis-infused beverages are also becoming more common. These drinks, which contain CBD or THC, are often used as alcohol substitutes. However, health experts recommend that consumers carefully read product labels and consult healthcare providers, as product ingredients and regulations can vary significantly.
While both trends reflect growing interest in wellness-focused drinks, experts emphasize that more research is needed to fully understand the health effects of these new beverage options.
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