9 Best Drinks Without Sugar to Try in 2025

Cutting back on sugar can feel like a daunting task, especially when it comes to what we drink. Sugary sodas, juices, and sweetened coffees are everywhere, often contributing to energy crashes, unwanted weight gain, and long-term health concerns. The good news is that giving up sugary beverages doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. Making a conscious switch to drinks without sugar is one of the most effective ways to improve your overall health, stabilize your energy levels, and reduce your daily calorie intake without feeling deprived.

This guide is designed to be your go-to resource for delicious and satisfying hydration. We'll explore a curated list of refreshing options, from simple classics to more creative concoctions. For each beverage, we will provide practical recipes, serving suggestions, and highlight key health benefits. You will discover how easy it is to replace high-sugar habits with alternatives that not only taste great but also support your wellness goals. Forget bland and boring; this list is packed with actionable ideas to help you stay hydrated, energized, and completely satisfied. Let's dive into the world of flavorful, sugar-free refreshment and find your new favorite drink.

1. Water (Plain and Sparkling): The Foundation of Health

The simplest and most effective choice for a drink without sugar is water. It's the ultimate zero-calorie, zero-sugar beverage essential for every bodily function, from regulating temperature to lubricating joints. Whether you prefer it still or sparkling, water is the fundamental building block of healthy hydration and the first step in cutting down on sugary alternatives.

Sparkling water offers a great transition for those accustomed to soda, providing the satisfying carbonation without any added sweeteners. Brands like LaCroix and Bubly have popularized flavored seltzer, proving that you can enjoy bubbly, flavorful drinks without sugar.

Why It Works So Well

Water is the body’s preferred liquid. Unlike sugary drinks that can lead to energy crashes and dehydration, water replenishes fluids efficiently. It supports metabolism, helps flush out toxins, and can even improve skin health and cognitive function. Drinking water instead of a 12-ounce can of regular soda, which contains about 39 grams of sugar, eliminates a significant source of empty calories and prevents blood sugar spikes.

"Switching just one sugary drink per day to water can reduce your annual calorie intake by over 50,000 calories, supporting weight management and reducing the risk of chronic disease."

Actionable Tips for Hydration

• Infuse for Flavor: Add slices of lemon, cucumber, mint, or berries to a pitcher of water for a refreshing, natural taste.
• Keep it Accessible: Carry a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day to encourage consistent sipping.
• Try Carbonation: If you find plain water unappealing, explore sparkling water options like Perrier or use a home carbonation system like SodaStream.
• Time Your Sips: Drink a full glass of water before each meal to aid digestion and help manage appetite.

2. Unsweetened Tea (Hot and Iced): A World of Flavor

Next to water, tea is one of the most popular drinks without sugar consumed worldwide. Available in countless varieties like green, black, white, oolong, and herbal, tea offers a sophisticated spectrum of flavors without any sweeteners. It can be enjoyed as a comforting hot beverage or a refreshing iced drink, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

From traditional Japanese matcha ceremonies to a classic British afternoon tea, the culture of unsweetened tea is rich and global. Modern brands like Tazo and Harney & Sons have made high-quality teas accessible, while chains like Starbucks offer simple, unsweetened iced tea as a staple.

Why It Works So Well

Unsweetened tea is a powerhouse of benefits. It's naturally calorie-free and rich in antioxidants, which help combat cellular damage. Varieties like green and black tea contain natural caffeine for a gentle energy boost without the crash associated with sugary drinks. For those mindful of their caloric intake, a detailed breakdown of black coffee calories can offer a helpful comparison to other zero-sugar caffeinated drinks.

"A single cup of unsweetened iced tea can satisfy a craving for a flavorful beverage while providing hydration and beneficial plant compounds, completely sidestepping the 30+ grams of sugar found in its sweetened counterparts."

Actionable Tips for Brewing

• Mind the Temperature: Brew green tea at lower temperatures (160-180°F) and black tea near boiling (200°F) to avoid bitterness.
• Try a Cold Brew: For a smoother, naturally sweeter iced tea, steep tea bags or loose-leaf tea in cold water in the refrigerator overnight.
• Start with Sweet Varieties: If you're new to unsweetened tea, try naturally sweeter herbal options like rooibos or chamomile.
• Add Natural Flavor: Enhance your tea with a squeeze of lemon, a few mint leaves, or a cinnamon stick instead of sugar. You can learn more about how tea can help manage sugar cravings to support your journey.

3. Black Coffee: The Aromatic Energy Booster

For millions, the day doesn't start without it, and black coffee stands as a powerful, naturally sugar-free beverage. Consumed without milk, cream, or sweeteners, it delivers a rich, complex flavor profile and a welcome energy boost with virtually no calories. It's a cornerstone of global culture, from Italian espresso bars to the "third-wave" specialty coffee shops like Blue Bottle Coffee.

Whether it’s a simple drip brew at the office or a meticulously prepared pour-over, black coffee is one of the most popular drinks without sugar. Its inherent lack of sweetness makes it a perfect choice for anyone looking to cut down on their sugar intake while still enjoying a flavorful and stimulating drink.

Why It Works So Well

Black coffee is loaded with antioxidants and beneficial nutrients that can improve focus, enhance physical performance, and support metabolic health. By skipping the additions found in a typical flavored latte, which can contain over 30 grams of sugar, you avoid a major source of empty calories and the subsequent energy crash. An Americano is another fantastic sugar-free coffee choice, offering a milder black coffee experience, and you can learn how to make an Americano coffee drink at home easily.

"A simple cup of black coffee contains less than 5 calories and zero grams of sugar, making it an ideal substitute for sugary energy drinks and sodas while providing a natural boost to your alertness and mood."

Actionable Tips for Better Black Coffee

• Start with Lighter Roasts: If you find coffee too bitter, try a light or medium roast, as they often have more nuanced, fruity, or floral notes.
• Brew it Fresh: Use high-quality, freshly ground beans for a significantly better taste. Grinding just before brewing preserves the aromatic oils.
• Try Cold Brew: For a smoother, less acidic option, steep coarse coffee grounds in cold water for 12-24 hours.
• Reduce Sugar Gradually: If you’re used to sweet coffee, slowly decrease the amount of sugar you add over a few weeks to adjust your palate.

4. Kombucha (Unsweetened or Low-Sugar Varieties)

Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage known for its tangy, effervescent taste and gut-friendly probiotics. Created using a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), the fermentation process consumes most of the sugar, resulting in a complex, low-sugar drink. It serves as an excellent, flavorful alternative to sugary sodas while providing beneficial organic acids and antioxidants.

While some kombuchas have added sugars, many brands now focus on creating truly low-sugar options. Brands like GT's Living Foods offer varieties with minimal sugar, and Health-Ade provides widely available options. These drinks prove you can enjoy a complex, bubbly beverage that supports digestive health without the sugar load.

Why It Works So Well

Kombucha offers the carbonation and flavor complexity that many people miss when giving up soda. The naturally occurring probiotics support a healthy gut microbiome, which is linked to improved digestion, immunity, and even mood. By choosing a kombucha with less than 4 grams of sugar per serving, you get a satisfying, functional beverage that hydrates and nourishes without causing a significant blood sugar spike.

"Opting for a low-sugar kombucha over a sweetened iced tea or soda provides beneficial probiotics and antioxidants, turning your drink choice into a proactive step for better gut health."

Actionable Tips for Enjoying Kombucha

• Read the Label: Always check the sugar content. Look for brands with 4 grams of sugar or less per serving to ensure it qualifies as a low-sugar option.
• Start Small: If you're new to kombucha, begin with a small serving (4-6 ounces) to see how your digestive system responds to the probiotics.
• Choose Raw and Unpasteurized: For the maximum probiotic benefit, select kombuchas that are labeled "raw" or "unpasteurized," as heat can kill the beneficial bacteria.
• Brew at Home: Consider home-brewing with a SCOBY. This gives you complete control over the fermentation time and final sugar content, making it one of the best drinks without sugar you can customize.

5. Zero-Calorie Flavored Water (Stevia or Monk Fruit Sweetened)

For those who find plain water uninspiring but still want healthy drinks without sugar, naturally sweetened flavored waters are a perfect middle ground. These beverages use zero-calorie, plant-based sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit to deliver taste and sweetness without the calories or blood sugar impact of sucrose. They are an excellent alternative to both high-sugar drinks and beverages made with artificial sweeteners.

This category bridges the gap between simple hydration and flavorful refreshment. Brands like Zevia offer stevia-sweetened sodas, while Bai uses erythritol and monk fruit. Even unsweetened options like Hint Water provide a touch of fruit essence, proving that enhanced water doesn't require any sweetener at all to be enjoyable.

Why It Works So Well

These drinks satisfy cravings for sweetness without derailing health goals. Because stevia and monk fruit are not metabolized by the body for energy, they don't cause the glycemic response associated with sugar. This makes them a safe and effective option for managing weight, controlling blood sugar levels, and reducing overall sugar intake while still enjoying a flavorful beverage. Choosing a stevia-sweetened drink over a traditional soft drink eliminates around 40 grams of sugar per serving.

"Naturally sweetened waters can help retrain your palate. They provide a sweet taste without the intense sugar rush, making it easier to transition away from sugary habits over time."

Actionable Tips for Hydration

• Read the Label: The term 'flavored' can be misleading. Always check the ingredients to ensure it’s sweetened with stevia, monk fruit, or erythritol, not sugar or aspartame.
• DIY Flavor Drops: Purchase liquid stevia or monk fruit drops (like SweetLeaf) and add them to your own still or sparkling water for a cost-effective, customized drink.
• Explore Sweeteners: Stevia and monk fruit have distinct taste profiles. If you don’t like one, try the other to find your preference. Find out more about the best sugar substitutes to see which fits your needs.
• Look for Minimal Ingredients: Choose products with a short, recognizable ingredient list to avoid unnecessary additives and artificial flavors.

6. Vegetable Juices and Green Drinks

For a nutrient-packed beverage without the sugar load of fruit juice, vegetable juices and green drinks are an excellent choice. Made from leafy greens, celery, cucumber, and other low-sugar vegetables, these drinks deliver a concentrated dose of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are a powerful way to boost your vegetable intake and support overall wellness, making them one of the best drinks without sugar for health-conscious individuals.

The celery juice trend, popularized by wellness advocates, highlights the demand for simple, powerful vegetable beverages. You can find ready-made options like Suja Organic green juices in most grocery stores or make your own with a home juicer like a Breville or Omega.

Why It Works So Well

Vegetable juices provide hydration along with a potent nutritional punch, minus the high fructose content found in most fruit juices. A 12-ounce glass of pure celery juice contains less than 5 grams of natural sugar, compared to the 30-40 grams in a typical glass of orange or apple juice. This makes it an ideal choice for stabilizing blood sugar while nourishing your body. Incorporating these drinks is a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of a sugar-free diet.

"By choosing green juice over fruit juice, you flood your system with chlorophyll, enzymes, and phytonutrients that support detoxification and reduce inflammation, without triggering a significant insulin response."

Actionable Tips for Juicing

• Start with a Mild Base: Use cucumber and celery as your foundation for a refreshing, mild flavor that’s easy to drink.
• Boost with Flavor: Add a small piece of ginger or a squeeze of lemon to enhance the taste and add extra anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Drink Fresh: Consume your homemade juice immediately after making it to preserve the maximum amount of live enzymes and nutrients.
• Blend for Fiber: If you want to retain the natural fiber, which aids digestion and promotes fullness, blend your vegetables into a smoothie instead of juicing them.

7. Herbal Infusions and Tisanes

Herbal infusions, also known as tisanes, are flavorful beverages made by steeping herbs, spices, flowers, or other plant materials in hot water. Unlike true teas from the Camellia sinensis plant, these drinks are naturally caffeine-free and have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, making them an excellent choice for flavorful, sugar-free hydration.

From the calming chamomile served in homes to the refreshing peppermint offered after restaurant meals, herbal infusions are a staple worldwide. Brands like Traditional Medicinals and Yogi Tea offer wellness blends that cater to specific needs, proving that drinks without sugar can be both functional and delicious.

Why It Works So Well

Herbal infusions offer a vast spectrum of flavors without any added sweeteners, satisfying cravings for something more interesting than plain water. Many herbs provide unique therapeutic benefits, such as promoting relaxation, aiding digestion, or boosting the immune system. Rooibos and hibiscus teas, for example, offer a naturally sweet and tart profile that can easily replace a sugary juice or soda.

"Herbal infusions provide a sensory experience with complex aromas and flavors, helping to break the psychological dependence on sugary drinks by offering a satisfying and healthy alternative."

Actionable Tips for Infusion

• Steep for Full Flavor: Unlike regular tea, most herbal infusions benefit from a longer steeping time of 10-15 minutes to extract their full flavor and benefits.
• Cover Your Cup: Keep the mug or pot covered while steeping to prevent the beneficial volatile oils from evaporating.
• Go for Natural Sweetness: If you’re transitioning from sugary drinks, try herbs with a naturally sweet taste, such as licorice root, rooibos, or cinnamon.
• Blend for Benefits: Create custom blends by combining different herbs. For instance, mix ginger and peppermint to aid digestion or chamomile and lavender for relaxation.

8. Unsweetened Plant-Based Milks: A Creamy Alternative

Plant-based milks made from nuts, seeds, oats, or soy offer a fantastic dairy-free beverage option. When chosen carefully, these creamy alternatives can be excellent drinks without sugar, perfect for enjoying on their own, adding to coffee, or blending into smoothies. Their popularity has soared due to dietary needs like lactose intolerance, lifestyle choices such as veganism, and a desire for diverse flavors.

The key is to select the "unsweetened" varieties, which contain no added sugars. Brands like Silk, Califia Farms, and Oatly have made these options widely available, transforming everything from your morning latte to your cereal bowl into a delicious, sugar-conscious experience.

Why It Works So Well

Unsweetened plant milks provide a satisfying, creamy texture that many people miss when cutting out sugary drinks like flavored milk or sweetened coffee creamers. Most unsweetened almond, cashew, or soy milks contain 0-1 grams of sugar per serving, a stark contrast to the 12 grams of sugar found in the same amount of dairy milk or the 20+ grams in sweetened versions. This makes them an ideal base for other flavors without causing a blood sugar spike.

"Opting for unsweetened almond milk in your daily coffee instead of a flavored creamer can cut out over 1,800 grams of sugar per year, equivalent to more than four pounds of pure sugar."

Actionable Tips for Plant-Based Sipping

• Always Read the Label: The most important step is to choose cartons explicitly marked "Unsweetened." Original or flavored versions often contain significant added sugars.
• Pick the Right Milk for the Job: Use oat or soy milk for a creamier coffee, as they froth well. Almond or cashew milks are lighter and great for smoothies and cereal.
• Look for Fortified Options: To get the most nutritional benefit, select plant milks fortified with calcium and Vitamin D, especially if you're using them as a dairy replacement.
• Make Your Own: For a pure, cost-effective option, try making your own nut milk at home. All you need are nuts, water, a blender, and a nut milk bag.

9. Unsweetened Plant-Based Milks: Creamy and Versatile

For those seeking a creamy, satisfying alternative to dairy or sugary beverages, unsweetened plant-based milks are an excellent choice. Options like almond, soy, oat, and coconut milk offer a rich texture perfect for coffee, smoothies, or enjoying on their own. As long as you choose the "unsweetened" variety, these drinks without sugar provide a fantastic base for countless healthy creations.

The bar chart below compares the calorie content per cup for three popular unsweetened plant-based milks, helping you choose the best fit for your dietary goals.

As the chart illustrates, unsweetened almond milk is the lowest-calorie option, while oat milk is the most energy-dense, making it a better choice for a more filling beverage.

Why It Works So Well

Unsweetened plant milks effectively satisfy cravings for rich, creamy drinks without the sugar load found in flavored dairy milks or sweetened coffee creamers. A cup of unsweetened almond milk contains 0 grams of sugar, whereas a similar serving of chocolate dairy milk can pack over 25 grams. This swap helps stabilize blood sugar, supports weight management, and provides a dairy-free option for those with lactose intolerance. Brands like Califia Farms, Silk, and Oatly offer a wide range of unsweetened choices.

"Opting for unsweetened plant-based milk in your morning coffee or smoothie is a simple yet powerful habit that significantly cuts your daily sugar intake without sacrificing flavor or texture."

Actionable Tips for Hydration

• Check the Label: Always look for the word "unsweetened" on the carton. "Original" or "Plain" varieties often contain added sugars.
• Froth for Lattes: Use a milk frother with unsweetened oat or soy milk to create a rich, cafe-style latte at home, minus the sugary syrups.
• Boost Your Smoothies: Blend with spinach, protein powder, and a handful of berries for a nutrient-dense, sugar-free meal replacement.
• Make "Golden Milk": Warm unsweetened coconut or almond milk with turmeric, cinnamon, and a pinch of black pepper for a soothing, anti-inflammatory beverage.

9 Sugar-Free Drinks Comparison Guide

Your Sugar-Free Journey Starts Now

Navigating the world of beverages can feel like walking through a minefield of hidden sugars. As we've explored, sugary drinks often contribute to energy crashes, mood swings, and long-term health concerns. The good news is that making a change doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or enjoyment. This guide has equipped you with a diverse toolkit of delicious and hydrating drinks without sugar, proving that a healthier lifestyle is both accessible and satisfying.

From the crisp simplicity of sparkling water to the complex, earthy notes of a well-brewed herbal tisane, you now have a wealth of options at your fingertips. We've seen how easy it is to elevate plain water with natural infusions and how a simple switch to unsweetened tea or black coffee can reclaim your energy levels. The key takeaway is that you are in complete control of what goes into your glass and, ultimately, your body.

Your Actionable Path Forward

Transitioning away from sugar is a journey, not an overnight switch. To make your new habits stick, focus on small, sustainable changes. Here are your next steps:

• Pantry Audit: Take 15 minutes this week to go through your fridge and pantry. Identify the sugary drinks you currently have. You don't have to throw them all out at once, but create a plan to phase them out and replace them with healthier alternatives from our list, like sparkling water or herbal tea bags.
• One-Week Challenge: Choose just one sugary drink you consume regularly, perhaps a morning juice or an afternoon soda. For the next seven days, replace it with a sugar-free alternative. Try a cold brew black coffee in the morning or a naturally flavored seltzer in the afternoon. Notice how you feel.
• Taste Bud Reset: Commit to trying one new drink without sugar each week. Maybe it's a homemade vegetable juice this week and a low-sugar kombucha the next. This approach keeps things interesting and helps your palate adapt to and appreciate less intensely sweet flavors.

The Lasting Impact of Smart Sips

Mastering the art of choosing drinks without sugar is more than just a dietary adjustment; it’s a powerful act of self-care. It's about providing your body with the clean hydration it needs to function optimally. The benefits ripple outward, leading to more stable energy, improved focus, better metabolic health, and a greater sense of well-being. You are not just avoiding empty calories; you are actively choosing to nourish yourself.

Remember, every sip is a choice. By arming yourself with knowledge and delicious alternatives, you've already taken the most important step. Embrace this new chapter with curiosity and confidence. Your body and mind will thank you for it.