At your grocery store’s beverage fridge, it can be hard to ignore drinks that claim to improve health in various ways. From soothing chamomile and rhodiola teas to adaptogens such as ashwagandha mushrooms and coconut water hydrators – they all work toward improving overall wellbeing.
Functional beverages aren’t subject to FDA regulation, so their labels may not always reflect reality. Still, functional beverages offer an easy way to include herbs and supplements into your daily diet.
Fruit Smoothies
Fruit smoothies are an increasingly popular wellness beverage that can be tailored to fit any taste or dietary preference. Not only are they portable and family-friendly beverages, but when prepared using an appropriate combination of fruits, vegetables, yogurt and healthy fats like coconut oil or avocado they may offer additional health benefits as well.
Fruits contain antioxidants which are believed to aid in warding off chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes and certain forms of cancer. When combined with protein (e.g. Greek yogurt or protein powder) and carbohydrates, such as oatmeal or fruit snacks containing these ingredients can even support post-workout recovery.
Frozen fruits help give smoothies their thickness and smooth texture, while vegetables such as kale or spinach will increase their nutritional value. Chia seeds or oatmeal are another great addition that provide both fiber and flavor boost.
Coconut Water
Coconut water, the clear liquid inside a fresh coconut, is an energizing drink with multiple health advantages. It can replenish electrolytes, manage diabetes, assist heart health, reduce stress levels and even aid stress reduction due to magnesium’s anti-stress benefits. Furthermore, its moderate glycemic index makes it ideal for people living with diabetes.
Food that naturally contains low levels of sugar while providing essential electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium are key components in supporting muscle health and hydration, so regular consumption should be encouraged.
When selecting coconut water, the optimal option should always be fresh, unprocessed coconut water. If this is unavailable to you, select cold-pressed varieties with minimal processing that retain its nutritional content. Always read labels to identify options with added sugars; look for brands with ethical and eco-friendly production processes to ensure you’re consuming truly nutritive beverages.
Coffee
Coffee has long been associated with improved mental alertness, increased energy levels and physical performance. Plus, its antioxidant-rich components offer protection from disease while serving as a reliable source of caffeine.
Studies have linked drinking coffee with reduced risks of Parkinson’s disease, liver diseases and depression. Furthermore, coffee can boost metabolism while curbing cravings for sweet foods.
Coffee beans contain numerous essential nutrients, including Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Pantothenic Acid, Manganese, Potassium and Niacin. Furthermore, coffee contains polyphenols with health promoting effects – compounds produced from plants with medicinal benefits that aid the body.
However, you must watch out for the many unhealthy ingredients often added to coffee beverages, including sugar, syrups, and whipped cream, which can add up quickly with no nutritional value whatsoever. To make things healthier try The Good Stuff’s simple and clean approach that only features five natural ingredients with a 60-day money back guarantee – offering just five ingredients as part of its formula for coffee drinks.
Tea
Wellness beverages are products which offer additional health benefits beyond proper nutrition (Shori, 2016). Also referred to as functional beverages.
Tea can be an invaluable wellness drink to your overall health. Green tea contains antioxidants and is an excellent source of vitamin C – two nutrients known for supporting immune function. Drinking tea may also lower your risk of cancer, heart disease, and weight gain.
Add detox tea with ingredients such as Rhodiola, Moringa and White Peach or an adaptogenic tea with Ashwagandha Lemon Verbena Moringa as part of your fight against illness, sleep difficulties and energy deficit.
Wellness drinks should focus on minimalism, prioritizing hydration and natural ingredients without adding extra calories through sweeteners and syrups. As more consumers become interested in choosing drinks that contain low-calorie sweeteners like Stevia for taste as well as wellness reasons, minimalist beverages with just these qualities become increasingly sought-after.
