I'm trying to do more than survive?

Whatever you're trying to do humans have been doing it successfully for thousands of years before the invention of sodas, mainly with water and alcohol.

You're claiming that humans have been successfully living to 80+ as happy, healthy individuals for thousands of years?

Are you obese? Soda and most forms of liquid calories are bad for you. Most of your fluid intake should be from water.

Not what my doctor says, but I appreciate the medical advice.

It's alright. The primary ingredient in drinks is... water. You're still drinking mostly water even if you don't drink water.