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Healthy Drinks
Many people may be surprised that their "healthy drinks" are not that healthy at all. Many drinks (especially store bought fruit drinks) contain high amounts of refined sugar. I caution you to be aware of what you are consuming.
Coffee
Good: I include coffee because of its popularity and the fact that I love it. Coffee is a diuretic and has antioxidants like chlorogenic acid. It's also low in calories.
Not so good: It can interfere with sleep, if consumed in the afternoon or later. Caffeine may cause jitters and nervousness. It can cause dehydration if not accompanied by drinking water.
Preparation Ideas: Everybody likes their coffee a certain way. I drink it black or add some cinnamon because I don’t want to increase my caloric intake.
Cranberry Juice
Good: This is a healthy drink if you drink the unsweetened kind. It’s a great source of phytochemicals, which are antioxidants that can help in the prevention of cancer, boost the immune & cardiovascular systems. For females, it can help relieve urinary tract infections. it is a good source of vitamin C and fiber.
Not so good: Many people make the mistake of drinking the sweetened kind thinking it has the same health benefits of the unsweetened kind. Sweetenend versions will likely have too much refined sugar.
Preparation Ideas: If it is too acidic for you try adding water for dilution purposes.
Veggie and Fruit Juices
Good: Let me be clear here, I am not talking about store bought brands, but rather you personally doing the juicing. It’s a great source of fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They can help with weight loss, disease prevention, brain functioning, cardiovascular system, and as energy boosters.
Not so good: Beware of the contents of store bought brands.
Preparation Ideas: It’s great to have during breakfast, lunch, dinner, or between meals.
Pomegranate Juice
Good: One of the healthiest juices you can drink. Studies suggest it may help in heart disease, cardiovascular disease, reduce certain cancers, slow aging, and reduce cholesterol. It is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamins A, C, & E.
Not so good: Beware of the contents of store bought brands.
Preparation Ideas: It’s great to have during breakfast, lunch, dinner, or between meals.
Tea (black, white, and green)
Good: Contains many powerful antioxidants that can help in the prevention of cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and heart diseases. It’s low in calories, fat, and carbohydrates.
Not so good: Many people create additional calories by adding sweeteners. Tea contains a lot of caffeine, therefore, it's best to avoid drinking it later in the day or it could affect your sleeping.
Preparation Ideas: It’s good during breakfast, lunch, or between meals.
Water
Good: The essentials to live are food, shelter, and water. We can’t live without it. It has no calories, fat, or carbohydrates. It is needed to help the body absorb nutrients. It keeps our metabolism running and can help suppress our appetite. Also, keeping the body hydrated will help prevent cramping, joint problems, and muscle problems.
Not so good: I have yet to find something.
Preparation Ideas: I drink it with almost every meal.
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