Here is my set up. This one is pricey initially, but checks all your requirements: Breville InFizz Fusion - mechanical (no need for batteries and has no wires), sturdy and designed to carbonate any liquid, not just water (the taste in this case is significantly better than just adding carbonated water into the drink). The CO2 tanks are compatible with old sodastream, which has multiple generic alternatives.

I also got myself a 10lbs CO2 cylinder and refill adapter woth hose on amazon, so I am refilling smaller tanks myself from it and refill the large tank once every 1-2 years in local welding supply store for $40.

I do recommend to have around 4-5 small tanks and 2 extra bottles for different sodas.

I’d argue that most wild microbes are not as bad as domestic microbes with all their antibiotic resistance development.

Overweight and obesity are extremely complex disorders, that combines genetic predisposition, changes in hormonal levels and horrible obesogenic environment that we have nowadays. There is no simple answer on how to lose weight as it depends on multiple factors too - your home and work environment, availability of stores with fresh products, your medical history, your goals in general. What is working well for one person, may not be ideal for others or even sometimes dangerous (depends on other comorbidities).

Most important part is not just to lose weight, but do it safely and maintain the weight loss. For that you need a whole lifestyle change, that is why it is so hard for many people. The major rule is: permanent dietary changes needed for a weight loss and regular exercises needed for maintaining the result.

My advise (if you are in the US) - find an obesity clinic with obesity board-certified physician, discuss all your concerns and develop a plan what will work specifically for you. It is pretty well covered by insurances and you will always have a specialist who can answer your questions and help to overcome any barriers in the future.

And remember we all are just internet strangers, take all our advices with healthy skepticism.