Speaking to your #5, if you're ever in Chicago you should check out Arize Kombucha. They make a ginger turmeric variety that is liquid heaven! It's available on tap in a few places.
good luck on your test! yeesh! i'm sooo glad that i'm done with those things.. - also my #1 drink is sparkling water (#2 would have to be single malt, #3 mango juice)