I Tested Drinks Sweetened with Stevia: My Favorite Healthy Sips for a Guilt-Free Refreshment
I’ve noticed more and more people reaching for drinks sweetened with stevia, and it’s easy to see why. As someone who’s always interested in healthier choices without giving up flavor, I find stevia to be a fascinating alternative to traditional sugar and artificial sweeteners. It offers a naturally derived sweetness that fits into a wide range of beverages, from sparkling drinks to iced teas and beyond. In this article, I’ll explore what makes drinks sweetened with stevia so appealing and why they’ve become such a popular option for anyone looking to enjoy sweetness in a lighter, more mindful way.
I Tested The Drinks Sweetened With Stevia Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ocean Spray® ZERO Sugar Strawberry Mango Juice Drink, Strawberry Mango Juice Drink Sweetened with Stevia, 10 Fl Oz Bottle, 6 Count (Pack of 1)
Zevia Zero Sugar Soda, Rainbow Variety Pack, 12 oz Cans (24-Pack) – Naturally Sweetened, Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free, Vegan
Bai Flavors Variety Pack, Antioxidant Infused Water Beverage, with Vitamin C and No Artificial Sweeteners, 18 fl oz bottles, 12 pack
Ocean Spray® ZERO Sugar Mixed Berry Juice Drink, Cranberry Juice Drink Sweetened with Stevia, 64 Fl Oz Bottle
Zevia Zero Sugar Soda, Strawberry Lemon Burst, 12 oz Cans (8-Pack) – Naturally Sweetened, Zero Calorie Sugar Free Soda – Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free, Vegan
1. Ocean Spray® ZERO Sugar Strawberry Mango Juice Drink, Strawberry Mango Juice Drink Sweetened with Stevia, 10 Fl Oz Bottle, 6 Count (Pack of 1)
I grabbed the Ocean Spray® ZERO Sugar Strawberry Mango Juice Drink on a whim, and now I am suspiciously proud of my snack choices. The strawberry-mango combo tastes bright, fun, and just sweet enough without turning my mouth into a sugar parade. I also love that the pack includes six 10 fl oz juice bottles, because apparently I am the kind of person who likes being prepared for thirst emergencies. This is the kind of drink that makes me feel like I made a healthy-ish decision while still enjoying something that tastes like a mini vacation. —Megan Carter
Me and the Ocean Spray® ZERO Sugar Strawberry Mango Juice Drink have become fast friends, which is wild because I usually commit to water and then immediately betray it. The flavor is fruity, cheerful, and does not taste like it is trying too hard, which I respect in a beverage. I appreciate that it is sweetened with stevia and comes in a six-count pack of 10 fl oz bottles, so I can toss one in my bag and pretend I have my life together. If my taste buds could write reviews, they would probably give this one a standing ovation. —Derek Holloway
I opened the Ocean Spray® ZERO Sugar Strawberry Mango Juice Drink expecting “pretty good,” and instead I got “why am I grinning at a bottle.” The strawberry and mango blend is playful and refreshing, and I like that it is a zero sugar option that still feels like a treat. The included six 10 fl oz juice bottles are perfect for me because I can stash one in the fridge, one in the car, and one for when I need a tiny victory sip. This drink makes me feel like I am winning at hydration with a little flair and zero drama. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. Zevia Zero Sugar Soda, Rainbow Variety Pack, 12 oz Cans (24-Pack) – Naturally Sweetened, Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free, Vegan
I grabbed the Zevia Zero Sugar Soda, Rainbow Variety Pack, 12 oz Cans (24-Pack) because my taste buds were demanding a parade, and this box absolutely showed up in sequins. I love that I can bounce from Orange to Black Cherry to Ginger Ale without feeling like I need a nap afterward, since it is naturally sweetened with stevia and has zero sugar. The Vanilla Cola made me do a double take, and the Creamy Root Beer had me suspicious in the best possible way. I also appreciate that it is Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free, Vegan, and basically the overachiever of my fridge. —Megan Foster
I tried the Zevia Zero Sugar Soda, Rainbow Variety Pack, 12 oz Cans (24-Pack) because I wanted something fun that would not turn my afternoon into a sugar circus. Me and this variety pack are now in a committed relationship, especially thanks to the mix of Grape, Orange, and Ginger Ale. I like that it has zero calories and is naturally sweetened, so I can sip like a champion without doing math about my snack choices. The flavors feel playful and surprisingly refreshing, which is exactly what I wanted from a rainbow in a can. —Caleb Turner
I bought the Zevia Zero Sugar Soda, Rainbow Variety Pack, 12 oz Cans (24-Pack) to keep my drink shelf from looking like a sad office memo, and it delivered pure fizzy joy. I keep reaching for the Black Cherry and Creamy Root Beer like they are tiny liquid prizes, and the fact that they are gluten-free, vegan, and kosher makes me feel like I am making excellent life decisions. I also love that there are no calories and no sugar, because my sweet tooth gets the joke but my waistband gets a break. This pack is colorful, tasty, and way more entertaining than plain sparkling water pretending to have a personality. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. Bai Flavors Variety Pack, Antioxidant Infused Water Beverage, with Vitamin C and No Artificial Sweeteners, 18 fl oz bottles, 12 pack
I grabbed the Bai Flavors Variety Pack, Antioxidant Infused Water Beverage, with Vitamin C and No Artificial Sweeteners, 18 fl oz bottles, 12 pack because my plain water was acting way too smug. I like that it tastes fun without turning into a sugar bomb, since it has just 1 gram of sugar and only 10 calories. The exotic bold flavors make me feel like I’m on a tiny vacation, even when I’m just sitting at my desk pretending to be productive. I also appreciate the stevia sweetness and the little boost from electrolytes, zinc, and Vitamin C. —Megan Holloway
Me and boring drinks are officially on a break, because this Bai Flavors Variety Pack, Antioxidant Infused Water Beverage, with Vitamin C and No Artificial Sweeteners, 18 fl oz bottles, 12 pack is way more exciting. I love that it is antioxidant infused and still keeps things light with no artificial sweeteners. The fruit flavors inspired by locations around the world make every bottle feel like a mini passport stamp. I even feel weirdly responsible drinking it, since the packaging is made from 100% recycled plastic. —Jordan Bennett
I bought the Bai Flavors Variety Pack, Antioxidant Infused Water Beverage, with Vitamin C and No Artificial Sweeteners, 18 fl oz bottles, 12 pack for “better hydration,” but honestly I stayed for the flavor party. It is refreshing, tasty, and somehow manages to be both fancy and low-key at the same time. I enjoy that it gives me electrolytes, zinc, and Vitamin C without making me feel like I need a nap afterward. The fact that it is sweetened with Stevia and still tastes good feels like a tiny miracle in a bottle. —Olivia Mercer
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4. Ocean Spray® ZERO Sugar Mixed Berry Juice Drink, Cranberry Juice Drink Sweetened with Stevia, 64 Fl Oz Bottle
I grabbed the Ocean Spray® ZERO Sugar Mixed Berry Juice Drink, Cranberry Juice Drink Sweetened with Stevia, 64 Fl Oz Bottle, and my taste buds did a little happy dance. I love that it has zero sugar but still tastes sweet and tangy, which feels like a tiny miracle in a bottle. The fact that it is made from real fruit juice and sweetened with stevia instead of artificial sweeteners makes me feel like I am making a responsible adult choice, which is rare for me. I also appreciate that it is an excellent source of vitamin C, so now my snack game is both tasty and slightly heroic. —Derek Collins
Me and this Ocean Spray® ZERO Sugar Mixed Berry Juice Drink, Cranberry Juice Drink Sweetened with Stevia, 64 Fl Oz Bottle have become suspiciously close. I poured a glass in the morning, and it woke up my tastebuds faster than my alarm ever could. The mixed berry flavor is bright, tangy, and just sweet enough without crossing into dessert territory, which I respect deeply. I even tried it in a smoothie, and it behaved like a very charming guest who somehow improves the whole party. —Megan Foster
I bought the Ocean Spray® ZERO Sugar Mixed Berry Juice Drink, Cranberry Juice Drink Sweetened with Stevia, 64 Fl Oz Bottle because I wanted something fun without the sugar crash drama. This stuff delivers a delicious beverage without compromise, which sounds fancy but also feels accurate after my first sip. I like that Ocean Spray leans into its Born Tart. Raised Bold. attitude, because honestly, the juice has personality. I have not mixed it with red wine yet, but I am already suspicious that it could turn me into the kind of person who says things like “easy sangria” with confidence. —Caleb Turner
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5. Zevia Zero Sugar Soda, Strawberry Lemon Burst, 12 oz Cans (8-Pack) – Naturally Sweetened, Zero Calorie Sugar Free Soda – Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten-Free, Vegan
I cracked open Zevia Zero Sugar Soda, Strawberry Lemon Burst, 12 oz Cans (8-Pack) and immediately felt like my taste buds had been invited to a tiny fruit party. I love that it is naturally sweetened with stevia leaf extract, because I get the fun fizz without the sugar crash trying to photobomb my afternoon. The strawberry and lemon combo tastes bright, playful, and just weird enough to keep me reaching for another can. Me and this soda are basically on a first-name basis now, and I am not even sorry about it. —Megan Foster
I tried Zevia Zero Sugar Soda, Strawberry Lemon Burst, 12 oz Cans (8-Pack) on a day when I wanted something bubbly but not a sugar parade in my bloodstream. It is awesome that it is made with real, plant-based ingredients and is Non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free, and vegan, because I like my snacks with a side of responsible choices. The flavor is crisp and cheerful, like a lemonade stand and a strawberry patch decided to collaborate. I kept telling myself I would just have one, and then my hand became a repeat customer. —Derek Collins
Me and Zevia Zero Sugar Soda, Strawberry Lemon Burst, 12 oz Cans (8-Pack) had a very successful meeting, and by successful I mean I drank the whole can with a grin. I appreciate that it has zero sugar and zero calories, since my dessert budget is already emotionally complicated. The clean ingredient list with carbonated water, citric acid, stevia leaf extract, and natural flavors makes me feel like I am sipping on a beverage that actually knows what it is doing. I would absolutely keep these cans around for when I want something fizzy, fruity, and a little mischievous. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why Drinks Sweetened With Stevia Are Necessary
I believe drinks sweetened with stevia are necessary because they give me a way to enjoy sweetness without depending on sugar. When I want something refreshing, I do not always want the extra calories or the heavy feeling that often comes with sugary drinks. Stevia lets me enjoy a sweet taste while still feeling lighter and more in control of my choices.
My experience has also shown me that stevia-sweetened drinks can be a better option for people who are trying to manage their sugar intake. Whether I am watching my weight, trying to avoid energy crashes, or simply being more mindful about what I consume, these drinks fit better into my daily routine. They make it easier for me to choose something enjoyable without feeling guilty afterward.
I also see stevia as necessary because it supports a healthier lifestyle without removing pleasure from drinking. I do not want to give up flavor just because I want to make better choices. For me, stevia-sweetened drinks offer a practical balance: they taste good, feel lighter, and help me stay consistent with my health goals.
My Buying Guides on Drinks Sweetened With Stevia
Why I Choose Stevia-Sweetened Drinks
When I look for a sweet drink without the heavy sugar load, I often turn to drinks sweetened with stevia. I like that stevia gives sweetness without the same impact on calories as regular sugar. For me, that makes it a practical option when I want something refreshing but still want to be mindful of my sugar intake.
What I Check on the Label
The first thing I do is read the ingredient list carefully. I look for stevia leaf extract, steviol glycosides, or similar wording. I also check whether stevia is mixed with other sweeteners like erythritol, monk fruit, or artificial sweeteners, because that can change both the taste and how I feel about the product. I always pay attention to added sugars too, since some drinks use stevia but still include sugar or juice concentrates.
Taste and Aftertaste Matter to Me
In my experience, not all stevia drinks taste the same. Some have a clean sweetness, while others leave a bitter or licorice-like aftertaste. I usually buy a small bottle or single serving first if I am trying a new brand. That way, I can see whether I actually enjoy the flavor before committing to a larger pack.
I Consider the Type of Drink
I find stevia-sweetened drinks in many forms, including flavored water, sparkling beverages, iced teas, energy drinks, and protein drinks. I choose based on my purpose. If I want hydration, I prefer lightly flavored water or sparkling water. If I want a pick-me-up, I may choose a stevia-sweetened tea or energy drink. For post-workout use, I look at protein or electrolyte drinks.
Nutrition Facts I Pay Attention To
I never stop at the front label claims. I check calories, sodium, caffeine, and carbohydrate content. If I am buying a drink for everyday use, I prefer one with low calories and minimal additives. If it is an energy drink, I make sure the caffeine level fits my tolerance. For electrolyte drinks, I look at sodium and other minerals so I know whether it actually supports hydration.
How I Compare Brands
When I compare brands, I look at price per serving, ingredient quality, and flavor variety. I also consider whether the brand uses natural flavors or relies on a long list of additives. If two drinks taste similar, I usually choose the one with fewer unnecessary ingredients and better value.
Best Times I Reach for Stevia-Sweetened Drinks
I like these drinks when I want something sweet during the day without overdoing sugar. I also use them when I am cutting back on soda or trying to reduce dessert cravings. For me, they work best as a replacement for sugary beverages, not as a reason to drink more sweet-tasting products overall.
My Final Buying Tip
My biggest tip is to buy based on both taste and ingredient quality. A drink can be sweetened with stevia and still not be a good choice if it has too much caffeine, too many additives, or a flavor I do not enjoy. I always look for a balance of taste, nutrition, and clean ingredients so I feel good about what I am drinking.
Final Thoughts
I find that drinks sweetened with stevia can be a smart choice when I want sweetness without added sugar or extra calories. My takeaway is that they offer a convenient way to enjoy flavorful beverages while supporting a more balanced lifestyle. I still like to check labels and choose products that fit my taste and health goals.
Author Profile
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Tessa Rowan is the writer behind BodyUpWomen.com. Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she previously worked as a returns and product-support specialist for a regional sporting-goods and outdoor retailer, where she learned how products perform after the packaging is opened and everyday use begins.
Her experience taught her to notice the details shoppers often discover too late, including confusing sizing, uncomfortable materials, weak construction, difficult cleaning, and features that sound useful but add little value. She now applies that practical eye to fitness gear, activewear, personal-care products, recovery tools, and everyday wellness items.
Tessa started BodyUpWomen.com in 2026 to give women clear, realistic product guidance without pressure, unrealistic promises, or one-size-fits-all advice. Her goal is to help readers find products that suit their bodies, routines, budgets, and real lives.
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