Beverages such as soda, energy drinks and coffee contain excessive sugar levels and additives that could be hazardous. Healthy alternatives include coconut water and homemade smoothies as delicious beverages with more hydrating benefits than sugary alternatives.
Cranberry juice has long been recognized for its health-promoting compounds and can help combat oxidative stress, urinary antibacterial adhesion activity and immune function. Other nutritious beverages include green tea and herbal combinations which promote beauty, relaxation and energy boost.
Water
Water is the healthiest drink, providing essential hydration while offering no calories. Drink at least six to eight glasses daily and stay hydrated!
Green tea, low-fat milk and black or green coffee are among the more nutritious beverages to drink; these offer important vitamins like vitamin D and magnesium to lower blood pressure. When choosing beverages that could potentially harm your health, such as sodas or caffeinated drinks with lots of added sugars or preservatives such as energy drinks containing preservatives that could harm you more, avoid sugary sodas that contain an abundance of both sugar and preservatives that could harm it further.
Spring water is often one of the best choices, as it is free from bacteria, chlorine and lead with an alkaline level over 7. Additionally, it contains calcium bicarbonate magnesium to support stomach acid levels and structured water – made from pure water that has gone through an alteration process to add extra hydration benefits – can provide extra hydration. Some bottled waters also contain added sugar which could contribute to weight gain as well as chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Fruit Juices
Fruit juices provide our bodies with essential vitamins and minerals they may not get from eating whole foods alone, including hydrating benefits, increased energy levels and supporting skin and hair health. Furthermore, they may help aid digestion, decrease cholesterol and enhance cardiovascular wellbeing.
Though many experts advise against drinking too much juice, it can still be part of a nutritious diet. Juices tend to contain more sugar and have a higher glycemic index than whole fruits; thus it is best to consume small quantities or select pasteurized juice options that do not include added sugars.
Cranberry juice has long been considered an effective means of protecting against kidney stones and tooth decay while also decreasing urinary tract infections in women. Grapefruit juice offers another healthy beverage option by strengthening immunity while decreasing blood pressure.
Unpasteurized juice should be avoided by children, pregnant women, and anyone immunocompromised as it contains bacteria that could lead to foodborne illness. When making homemade or buying juice from stores, use an efficient juicer with good cooling capabilities so it can be refrigerated promptly; leftover juice can breed bacteria which lead to illness; the best-tasting varieties feature fruits and vegetables that are low-sugar options.
Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate, typically prepared from cocoa powder and milk (or plant-based milk), is packed with antioxidants. Additionally, this beverage may also contain caffeine or tryptophan, an amino acid which is converted to serotonin–another mood-boosting neurotransmitter–by the body. Furthermore, drinking hot chocolate provides iron, calcium and vitamin D benefits.
Studies show that cocoa can boost brain health through its flavonoids and phenylethylamine content, and by helping reduce stress and depression. Regular consumption has also been proven to help alleviate anxiety levels.
Skin Health: Cocoa’s antioxidant properties provide protection from UV radiation damage while simultaneously supporting healthy skin hydration and circulation on its surface, thus improving complexion.
High Sugar and Calories: Consuming sweetened hot chocolate regularly may contribute to an excessive caloric intake, leading to weight gain and related health concerns. Furthermore, sweetened hot chocolate consumption may cause tooth decay and increase in triglyceride levels.
However, when consumed in moderation with low-sugar or plant-based milk alternatives such as soymilk, hot chocolate can be part of a nutritious diet and be an enjoyable way to warm up on cold days. Experiment by adding spices such as cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra zesty or creamy notes. Finally, experiment with different varieties such as dark, milk and white chocolate for variety!
