Finding Water Enhancers That Don't Have Artificial Sweeteners

November 3, 2025 •

3 min read

The global market for sugar-free and low-calorie soft drinks is worth billions, yet many consumers are seeking clean-label alternatives that are healthier than artificial additives. Fortunately, there are many water enhancers that don't have artificial sweeteners, offering a refreshing way to boost your hydration naturally.

Quick Summary

Many natural and clean-label water enhancers are available for those avoiding artificial additives. Options include products sweetened with stevia or monk fruit, unsweetened flavor drops, and simple DIY methods using fresh ingredients. Choose the best option for your taste and dietary needs to enjoy flavorful, naturally sweetened, or unsweetened water.

Key Points

Natural Sweeteners Exist: Many brands now use plant-based sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit, offering a sweet taste without artificial additives,.
DIY is Easiest: For complete control, infuse plain water with fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs like lemon, cucumber, or mint,.
Unsweetened Options Available: Brands like True Citrus offer packets and sparkling waters like Waterloo offer ready-to-drink cans that provide flavor without any sweetness,.
Read the Label Carefully: Always check the ingredients list to verify that a product truly contains no artificial sweeteners, especially if it's a 'zero sugar' product.
Good for Diabetics: Many naturally sweetened options are low-glycemic and suitable for diabetics, but label-checking and doctor consultation are advised.
Consider Electrolyte Needs: Some natural water enhancers, like Nuun or Ultima, also offer electrolytes, which can be beneficial for post-exercise hydration,.

The Shift to Natural Hydration

For years, flavored water options were dominated by products loaded with artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose. However, as health consciousness grows, more people are scrutinizing ingredient lists and actively avoiding synthetic additives. This demand has spurred innovation in the beverage industry, leading to a new wave of water enhancers that prioritize clean, natural ingredients.

DIY Water Infusions: The Purest Approach

One of the most effective and purest ways to enhance your water is by using fresh, whole ingredients at home. This method gives you complete control over what you consume, with zero additives and no calories unless you eat the infused fruit itself.

Classic Fruit Combinations: Add slices of citrus fruits like lemons, limes, or oranges to your water for a vibrant, tangy taste. Other popular choices include strawberries, blueberries, and watermelon.
Herbal and Vegetable Twists: Elevate your infusion with fresh herbs like mint, basil, or rosemary. For a cool, crisp flavor, try adding cucumber slices.
Spicy Infusions: Add a slice of ginger or a few pieces of jalapeño for a surprising kick that pairs well with fruits like peaches or mango.

Brands with Stevia and Monk Fruit

For those who prefer the convenience of store-bought products but still want to avoid artificial sweeteners, several brands now use natural, non-caloric sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit.

True Citrus: Offers a range of packets, including both unsweetened crystallized citrus packets and sweetened drink mixes. Their sweetened versions use stevia and a touch of sugar,.
Stur: Provides a liquid water enhancer sweetened naturally with stevia, offering a variety of fruit flavors that are sugar-free and zero-calorie,.
SweetLeaf: Their water drops are sweetened with a blend of stevia and monk fruit, delivering zero-calorie flavor without any artificial ingredients or bitter aftertaste,.
Nuun: Offers electrolyte tablets that use natural ingredients and have no added sugar, making them a great option for active individuals seeking hydration without artificial sweeteners.

Naturally Unsweetened Options

If you prefer no sweetness at all but still want a flavor boost, these products focus purely on fruit essences and botanical extracts.

True Citrus Unsweetened Packets: Made from real fruit, these packets provide a bright citrus flavor with zero calories and no sweeteners.
Obrilo Water Enhancer: This brand specializes in naturally flavored drops with zero sugar and no artificial colors or flavors.
Flavored Sparkling Waters: Brands like Waterloo offer a wide variety of flavored sparkling waters that are free of calories, sugar, and artificial sweeteners, providing a bubbly, flavorful alternative.

Comparison of Popular Natural Water Enhancers


Feature	True Lemon (Stevia)	Stur (Stevia)	Waterloo Sparkling Water	DIY Infused Water
Sweetener	Stevia + trace sugar	Stevia	None	None
Format	Powder Packets	Liquid Drops	Ready-to-drink cans	Fresh ingredients + water
Flavor Profile	Citrus-focused with sweet versions	Fruit-forward, wide variety	Wide variety of fruit essences	Custom, depends on ingredients
Convenience	Great for travel	Easy, adjustable drops	Grab-and-go	Requires preparation time
Additives	Natural flavors, simple ingredients	Natural flavors, simple ingredients	Natural flavors, purified water	100% natural, no additives
Cost	Low per serving	Low per serving	Moderate	Very low, depending on ingredients

Choosing the Right Water Enhancer for You

When selecting a natural water enhancer, consider your personal preferences and health goals. If you are looking for the absolute purest option, homemade infusions are the way to go. If you need portability and convenience, naturally sweetened liquid drops or packets offer a great compromise. Those who want a sweet taste without artificial ingredients should look for products specifically mentioning stevia or monk fruit. For flavor without any sweetness, unsweetened packets or sparkling waters are the best bet.

Conclusion: Finding Your Natural Flavor

With a growing number of brands and DIY options, it's easier than ever to find water enhancers that don't have artificial sweeteners. From infusing your own water with fresh fruits and herbs to choosing products naturally sweetened with stevia or monk fruit, you have a wealth of choices to keep your hydration exciting and aligned with a healthier lifestyle. The days of sacrificing flavor for clean ingredients are over, allowing you to enjoy delicious, naturally flavored water anytime, anywhere. For more information on flavoring water healthfully, visit the Cleveland Clinic's guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, many brands now offer natural water enhancers that use sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, or rely solely on real fruit essences for flavor,.

Brands like True Citrus, Stur, and SweetLeaf offer product lines sweetened with stevia and/or monk fruit instead of artificial options,,.

You can infuse water with sliced fruits (lemons, berries), vegetables (cucumber), or herbs (mint, basil) for a natural and refreshing flavor,.

Yes, options like True Citrus unsweetened packets and various unsweetened sparkling waters (e.g., Waterloo) provide flavor without any sweetener at all,.

Many water enhancers with natural, non-caloric sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit are suitable for people with diabetes, but it's important to always check the specific product label for sugar content and consult a doctor.

Naturally sweetened enhancers use plant-derived sweeteners for a sweet taste, while unsweetened ones rely solely on fruit or herb essences for flavor with no sweetness,.

Check for brands that explicitly state 'no artificial sweeteners' and read the ingredients list to confirm, looking for natural alternatives like stevia and monk fruit, or real fruit extracts,.

Many flavored sparkling waters do not contain artificial sweeteners, sugar, or calories. Brands like Waterloo are examples of naturally flavored, zero-additive options,.