Liquid consumption – Do’s and Don’ts

Whatever your health goals (watching your weight or just a desire to be healthier), taking a look at what you drink is absolutely key to reaching your goals. Unfortunately, empty calories can lurk in all types of beverages - especially these:

Coffee drinks – full-fat cream, artificial syrups, and extras such as chocolate sprinkles. These fancy drinks can pack as many calories (and fat) as a meal.

Summer cocktails such as margaritas, pina coladas and daiquiris are sugary summer drinks that pack a double dose of calories due to alcohol and sugar - some can top 800 calories in one drink!!

Non-juice “juice drinks.” Before you buy juice, people, READ the label and make sure it says 100% juice (not just “made with” real juice). Also, be sure to read the label and check for artificial sweeteners and calories. Many of these products are no better than drinking pure sugar water!

Soda. There isn’t anything nutritious about soda, whether it’s diet or regular. If you’re a soda addict, break the habit now and eliminate soda as a treat. Period.

Instead, here are some healthier options for you:

Green tea. Green tea is a potent source of catechins - healthy antioxidants which can inhibit cancer cell activity and help boost immunity. Replace your morning coffee with a cup of tea for a “healthier” wake-up.

Cranberry juice. Cranberries are a rich source of vitamin C. Instead of cranberry juice cocktail, however, opt for unsweetened cranberry juice concentrate and dilute it with water or even sparkling water, for an alternative to soda.

Red wine. The antioxidant activity of red wine has been linked to heart health benefits, reduced stress, and even memory. If you enjoy an occasional drink, limit your intake to 1-2 glasses a day. If you don’t drink, don’t start - there are other ways to get antioxidants in your diet, including fresh, whole fruits and vegetables.

Pure, filtered water. Staying well hydrated is essential to optimal health and overall functioning. I cannot stress this enough!! Remember the formula: half of your weight in ounces is the minimum requirement of water consumption per day.

~ Live Well ~
Trinity Fitness