When I met Bobby and started interacting with NoFizz America, I was a diet soda drinker. I thought I was doing good by at least drinking diet soda over regular soda, so that I wasn’t consuming all the calories and sugar. Boy, was I wrong! After one meeting with Bobby to discuss how NoFizz America and Filters Fast Local Service could begin partnering together to spread the message of healthy hydration, I was on board 100% with the challenge. I gave up soda that day and haven’t looked back!

As Division Manager of Filters Fast Local Service, I couldn’t very well ask my friends, family and customers to take on a challenge that I couldn’t – or wouldn’t do. The first few days were the hardest. I’m not sure if it was the habit of sipping something fizzy or the caffeine that I was missing, but once I got through day 4, I was on well on my way to not even noticing the lack of soda in my life!

I started noticing the health benefits immediately. I’m sleeping better, paying closer attention to what I’m putting into my body (no more aspartame or high fructose corn syrup when I can help it!) and no longer suffering from afternoon sluggishness. I’ve also lost weight and my clothes are fitting so much better!

On top of that, I know the long term benefits will far outweigh the short term benefits I’ve already experienced. Cancer and diabetes both run in my family so treating my body properly now, while I’m healthy, rather than treating a problem later is important to me. Giving up soda has led to other changes in lifestyle as well. I feel more motivated to read nutrition labels, cook at home rather than eat out, walk the dog more often and pay closer attention to my health and well-being in general.

Plus, an added benefit is that water is free! I filter my water at home and always, always, always carry a water bottle with me. I’ve made a habit of just sipping water constantly throughout the day. It really staves off cravings and curbs my appetite. Water is so versatile and it’s become almost a game in my house to find healthy ways to flavor it. I regularly add slices of orange, lemon and lime to my water. For something different, I’ve even added cucumber.

I’ve also started making my own version of lemonade by mixing fresh lemon juice into a pitcher of water with a little Stevia. Bobby and other NoFizzUSA participants are great about throwing out their own ideas on Twitter and Facebook so I make sure to check in often for new ideas and encouragement.

My husband was the first to jump on board and support my decision. Since then, I’ve reached out to friends and family in the hopes of spreading the NoFizz America message. I’m hoping that showing them my results and giving my testimony will encourage others to make the change as well!