Olipop vs. LaCroix: Which Fizzy Drink Is Better for Your Gut and Hydration?

When you reach for a can of something bubbly, you might wonder: is it better to choose a prebiotic soda like Olipop or a calorie-free sparkling water like LaCroix? Both offer satisfying fizz without the heavy sugar load of traditional sodas, but they serve very different purposes in your diet and gut health routine. Understanding the key differences can help you make an informed choice that supports your digestive system, hydration levels, and taste preferences.

In this head-to-head comparison, we’ll break down how Olipop and LaCroix stack up in terms of gut health benefits, hydration efficiency, sugar content, flavor variety, and overall value. Whether you’re looking to improve your microbiome or simply cut back on sugary drinks, this guide will help you decide which fizzy beverage deserves a spot in your fridge.

Gut Health: Prebiotic Fiber vs. Plain Sparkling Water

The most significant difference between Olipop and LaCroix is the presence of prebiotic fiber in Olipop. Each can of Olipop contains 9 grams of dietary fiber derived from ingredients like chicory root, Jerusalem artichoke, and cassava. This fiber feeds beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy microbiome and supporting regular digestion. LaCroix, on the other hand, is simply carbonated water with natural flavors — it contains zero fiber, zero prebiotics, and no direct impact on gut health.

If your primary goal is to improve your digestive health or increase your daily fiber intake, Olipop is the clear winner. The prebiotic blend in flavors like Crisp Apple and Orange Cream can help reduce bloating, support immune function, and even curb sugar cravings by stabilizing blood sugar levels. However, for those who are sensitive to fiber or simply want a clean, zero-calorie hydration option, LaCroix remains a perfectly fine choice — just don’t expect any gut health benefits.

• Olipop provides 9g of prebiotic fiber per can; LaCroix has none.
• Prebiotic fiber feeds beneficial gut bacteria, improving digestion and immunity.
• LaCroix is a neutral option for those avoiding added ingredients.

Hydration: Does Prebiotic Soda Count Toward Your Daily Water Intake?

Both Olipop and LaCroix are primarily water-based, so they do contribute to your daily fluid needs. However, the presence of fiber and natural sweeteners in Olipop (from ingredients like stevia and monk fruit) may slightly alter how your body processes the liquid. LaCroix is essentially water with bubbles — it hydrates just as effectively as still water, making it an excellent choice for those who struggle to drink enough plain water.

Olipop’s fiber content can actually aid hydration by slowing down the absorption of fluids and helping your body retain water more efficiently. This can be especially beneficial after exercise or on hot days. That said, because Olipop contains some natural sugars (around 2-5 grams per can), it should not replace plain water entirely. For pure, no-fuss hydration, LaCroix wins. For a hydrating drink that also supports gut health, Olipop is a smart addition to your routine.

• Both drinks are water-based and contribute to hydration.
• Olipop’s fiber may improve water retention and absorption.
• LaCroix is calorie-free and ideal for replacing plain water.

Sugar and Calories: A Side-by-Side Comparison

One of the main reasons people turn to LaCroix is its zero sugar, zero calorie profile. It contains no artificial sweeteners, no added sugars, and no calories — just carbonated water and natural flavors. Olipop, while still low in sugar compared to traditional sodas, contains 2-5 grams of sugar per can (from natural sources like fruit juice and stevia) and roughly 35-45 calories. For strict keto or low-carb dieters, LaCroix is the safer bet.

However, Olipop’s sugar content is far lower than a standard soda (which can have 30-40 grams of sugar per can), and the fiber helps mitigate blood sugar spikes. Flavors like Watermelon Lime and Pineapple Paradise offer a satisfying sweetness without the crash. If you’re trying to reduce sugar intake while still enjoying a flavorful drink, Olipop provides a middle ground that LaCroix simply cannot match in terms of taste depth.

• LaCroix: 0g sugar, 0 calories per can.
• Olipop: 2-5g sugar, 35-45 calories per can, with 9g fiber.
• Olipop’s fiber reduces glycemic impact compared to regular soda.

Flavor Variety and Taste Experience

LaCroix is famous for its wide range of subtle, natural fruit flavors — from Pamplemousse (grapefruit) to Key Lime and Berry. However, many drinkers find LaCroix’s flavor profile to be light and sometimes faint, especially if you’re used to sweeter drinks. Olipop, by contrast, offers bolder, more complex flavors that mimic classic sodas and creamy desserts. For example, Orange Cream tastes like a nostalgic ice cream float, while Cherry Vanilla delivers a rich, sweet finish.

Olipop also offers seasonal and variety packs, such as the Classic Soda Variety Pack, which lets you sample multiple flavors. LaCroix’s variety packs are also popular, but they lack the creamy, dessert-like options that Olipop excels at. If you crave a drink that feels indulgent without the guilt, Olipop is the better choice. If you prefer a crisp, clean, and barely sweetened bubbly water, LaCroix remains a staple.

• Olipop flavors are bolder, creamier, and more dessert-like.
• LaCroix offers subtle, natural fruit flavors with no sweetness.
• Olipop’s Classic Soda Variety Pack includes multiple fan-favorite flavors.

Price and Accessibility

LaCroix is widely available in most grocery stores, drugstores, and online retailers, typically costing around $4-6 for a 12-pack. Olipop, while increasingly common in health food stores and major chains like Target and Whole Foods, is usually priced higher — around $8-10 for an 8-pack. This price difference reflects the higher cost of prebiotic ingredients and functional benefits.

For budget-conscious shoppers, LaCroix is the more economical everyday option. However, many Olipop fans argue that the gut health benefits and superior taste justify the premium. If you’re new to Olipop, consider starting with a single flavor like Lemon Lime or Peaches & Cream to test the waters before committing to a bulk purchase.

• LaCroix: ~$4-6 per 12-pack, widely available.
• Olipop: ~$8-10 per 8-pack, available online and in select stores.
• Olipop’s higher cost reflects functional prebiotic ingredients.

Both Olipop and LaCroix have their place in a healthy lifestyle. If your priority is pure hydration with zero calories and zero sugar, LaCroix is a reliable, affordable choice. But if you want to actively support your gut health, reduce sugar cravings, and enjoy a more flavorful, satisfying fizzy drink, Olipop is the superior option. Start your gut-health journey today by exploring the Classic Soda Variety Pack — it’s the perfect way to discover your new favorite prebiotic soda.