Wellness beverages provide a delicious, convenient way to stay hydrated and meet dietary goals. From fermented teas that promote gut health to plant-based protein shakes, wellness beverages provide delicious nutrition in one convenient package – giving an enjoyable boost without guilt or weight gain!
Make sure that the beverages you select meet both your health needs and taste preferences, with transparency regarding ingredients being key in order to meet any dietary restrictions you have.
1. Kombucha
Kombucha is an ancient health tonic with probiotics and antioxidants that boasts an effervescent, bubbly profile, boasting promises that it can boost immunity, aid digestion and metabolism, revitalize and re-energize both body and mind, promote a healthier heart and prevent cancer. Today it has made a comeback thanks to modern research.
Kombucha contains trace amounts of alcohol from fermentation by yeast, yet these levels are minimal enough that many can safely consume it. Recovering alcoholics should take note before sipping on kombucha while those taking medications that could interact negatively with even trace amounts of alcohol should avoid drinking it altogether.
SCOBY cultures contain high concentrations of D-saccharic acid-1,4-lactone (DSL), an antioxidant. Research conducted on test tube studies demonstrates the benefits of DSL for improving cardiovascular disease risk factors, inhibiting angiogenesis, lowering blood sugar and insulin levels and helping repair liver damage from painkillers like Acetaminophen.
2. Matcha
Matcha green tea is made of finely ground shade-grown leaves that have been ground finely and used hot or cold in various ways, from lattes and dessert garnishing, to using it to boost metabolism and aid weight loss. Matcha contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), an antioxidant which has been proven to boost metabolism and contributes to weight loss when consumed regularly – but must only be done so moderately for best results.
L-theanine is an amino acid that alters how caffeine impacts on the brain, helping reduce stress and enhance cognitive performance without producing the jitters associated with coffee consumption.
Whisk 2 to 4 ounces of nearly boiling water mixed with 1 teaspoon of powder until it becomes frothy, adding milk or honey if desired for sweetening purposes. Or mix into genmaicha or ricotta as an easy base for baked goods and smoothies!
3. Turmeric Lattes
Turmeric, an anti-inflammatory spice rich in curcumin, serves as the base for this coffee alternative. While traditionally turmeric milk (known in India as haldi doodh) was prepared by steeping ground or fresh turmeric in milk for several hours before straining out, modern golden lattes often use pre-made turmeric mixes combined with various non-dairy milks and warming spices such as cinnamon or cardamom for an easier method.
Turmeric lattes can be an ideal way to start your day, whether homemade or purchased at your local coffee shop. For optimal absorption, add a pinch of black pepper as this helps your body more readily absorb curcumin.
4. Green Juices
Green juices are nutritious drinks made from a mixture of leafy vegetables and superfoods such as spinach, celery, parsley, cucumber apple lemon and ginger that provide natural sweetness. Typically included ingredients in green juice recipes include: kale spinach celery parsley cucumber apple lemon and ginger.
Green juices provide a wealth of B vitamins and iron, naturally increasing energy without the spike and crash associated with caffeine consumption. Furthermore, their Vitamin C content supports immune function while fighting inflammation.
Although green juice may offer many health advantages, it should not be seen as a replacement for eating healthily overall. Many store-bought options contain added sugar which may harm your body – look out for labels stating “no added sugar” or checking ingredient lists to identify hidden sweeteners. Furthermore, some bottled green juices may have been heat pasteurized which destroys essential nutrients while diminishing flavor.
5. Prebiotic Sodas
Prebiotic sodas like Olipop have made waves in the market and offer numerous health and energy benefits, from gut health to energy boost. But experts caution that prebiotic sodas shouldn’t be relied upon solely as sources of fiber.
Gormer recommends eating foods such as chicory root, leeks, onions, garlic, Jerusalem artichokes, asparagus and bananas to gain prebiotics for health benefits. All of these contain inulin which supports beneficial bacteria in your large intestine and turns into short-chain fatty acids for increased health benefits.
Functional sodas can provide an ideal way to hydrate while supporting the gut microbiome, says Cochrun, but she cautions that such beverages may cause gas and bloat in certain individuals, particularly those suffering from digestive conditions like IBS or FODMAP intolerance. She suggests consulting your physician prior to adding these products into your diet plan.
