What’s the Hype About?

Written by: Gabriele Margiotti

I’m sure you’ve seen your favorite influencers raving about Olipop and Poppi, claiming them to be the “healthy” alternative to soda. But the main question seems to be: What makes them so healthy? The answer we keep hearing? “It’s a prebiotic! Duh!”

Whenever something gets labeled as a “healthy alternative,” it quickly becomes the next big hit. But let’s be honest—how many people actually know what a prebiotic is? I’d bet a good portion of Olipop and Poppi drinkers don’t.

So, let’s break it down. That way, next time someone asks why you’re obsessed with the Orange Squeeze Olipop (my personal favorite!), you’ll have more to say than just, “It’s good for my gut!”

---

Prebiotics vs. Probiotics: What’s the Difference?

Both prebiotics and probiotics play an important role in gut health, but they’re not the same thing:

✔️ Probiotics = Live beneficial bacteria that support gut health
Found in: Yogurt, kimchi, kombucha, kefir

✔️ Prebiotics = Food for those beneficial bacteria
Found in: Fiber-rich foods like bananas, oats, garlic, onions

👉 Why prebiotics matter: They nourish good gut bacteria, improve digestion, and support immunity.

Since Olipop and Poppi contain prebiotics, not probiotics, they help feed the good bacteria in your gut—but they don’t actually provide the bacteria themselves.

---

Olipop & Poppi: A Better Alternative to Soda?

These drinks claim to support gut health. Let’s see how they compare to regular soda:

✅ Lower Sugar – Olipop has around 2-5g of sugar per can, compared to 39g in a typical soda.
✅ Prebiotic Fiber – Ingredients like chicory root, inulin, and plant fibers feed your gut bacteria.
✅ Added Nutrients – Some flavors also include ingredients like marshmallow root, licorice root, hibiscus, and apple cider vinegar, which are traditionally linked to gut health

---

Are They Actually Good for Gut Health?

🔹 Prebiotic fiber can support gut health, but the amount in these drinks varies.
🔹 They don’t contain probiotics, so they can’t replace fermented foods like yogurt or kimchi.
🔹 Whole foods are still the best way to get prebiotics and fiber.

While Olipop and Poppi provide some gut-friendly benefits, they aren’t a cure-all. They’re a fun option, but don’t ditch fiber-rich fruits, veggies, and whole grains in favor of them!

---

Final Thoughts: Should You Try Them?

✔️ A better alternative to soda? Absolutely!
✔️ A complete gut health solution? Not quite.

If you enjoy the taste and want to cut back on sugary drinks, Olipop and Poppi are solid choices. But for long-term gut health, focus on a balanced diet with fiber-rich foods!

---

Want to Learn More?

📌 What Are Prebiotics? (Mayo Clinic)

📌 How to Get Prebiotics & Probiotics Through Whole Foods

📌 Best Food Sources of Prebiotics (Healthline)

Or try making your own prebiotic-rich drink at home! Check out this homemade gut-friendly soda recipe.