Many people don’t realize just how bad choosing the wrong drink can be for their waistline. Sugary drinks, like soda and lemonade, contain loads of calories and no nutritional benefit. Even drinks that are advertised as “healthy,” such as enhanced waters and sports drinks, tip the scale when it comes to sugar. Stay away from these diet saboteurs and stick to drinks that are lower in sugar and offer plenty of vitamins and minerals. These weight loss drinks can help you shed the pounds while still quenching your thirst.
Water
I’m sure this comes as no surprise to you, but water tops the list of drinks you need to stay healthy and trim. Yes, water quenches your thirst, but it also helps carry nutrients to your cells and flushes out toxins from your organs. Water also lubricates your ear, nose and throat tissues and helps you maintain your body temperature. Drinking water before meals can also help you eat fewer calories in the long run.
Coffee
We know seeing coffee on this list probably makes us your new best friend, and it’s true, coffee can be good for you! Coffee is naturally calorie-free, so if you enjoy it black — or with a no-calorie sweetener — you’re not adding to your caloric intake for the day. It’s also a great source of antioxidants, including those that keep your heart healthy. The caffeine in coffee has also been shown to boost metabolism speed. Of course, moderation is key. Too much coffee can cause jitteriness and anxiety. Limit yourself to three cups a day.
Green Tea
Green tea is high in a specific category of antioxidants called flavonoids, specifically catechins. Research has shown that catechins may be more powerful in fighting cell damage than other antioxidants, like vitamins C and E. Because of this, drinking green tea may help reduce your risk of developing certain cancers, such as bladder, breast, lung, colon and skin. But it’s not just that. The caffeine and catechizes together can speed uo metabolism and help break down excess fat. The combo also helps increase the amount of energy the body uses (or the amount of calories you burn.
In addition to green tea’s antioxidant properties, it can also help lower LDL cholesterol, which may help reduce your risk of developing heart disease. These benefits were generally seen with about 3 cups of green tea per day.
Fruit and Vegetable Smoothies
Smoothies can be a healthy drink option, when done right. Some smoothies, like the prepackaged versions at your grocery store, can contain lots of sugar and calories. When you make your own smoothies, however, you can whip u[ a drink that is rich in protein, fiber and plenty of vitamins and minerals. Smoothies are also a good way to meet your fruit recommendations for the day. Combine non-dairy milk with half a banana, a half-cup of strawberries, a handful of almonds and a handful of spinach. Blend and you’ve got a nutrient-packed breakfast that will help keep you full until lunch. If you order a smoothie while you’re out, ask them to hold any added sugar, like juice or ice cream. Fruit is naturally sweet enough.
