The caffeine in Coke is counter but the High Fructose Corn Sweetener makes it a double whammy. Check the store to see if you can buy Mexican Coke. It is made with real sugar. In also comes in glass bottles. Nothing like a cold glass bottle to savor the full flavor. Most countries do not allow HFCS in food.

If the conversation is with two other people , I usually end up just listening. Don't have the focus to compose a comment between listening to two voices.

I drink Sierra Mist and usually a Sierra Mist CranRaspberry juice (Langers) mix. Both are made with real sugar. I notice a big difference if they are straight vs over ice. I need a glass full of ice to enjoy it without the negatives.

Maybe once a month, I will splurge on a Dr Pepper, again over lots of ice. Dr Pepper Cherry or Cherry Vanilla is good. I pay the price with insomnia but enjoy the flavor.