Healthiest Drink Options

Dallas Bolen
Many diets focus on foods that you can and cannot consume, but often a great diet plan is ruined by drinking the wrong things. Even diet sodas are known to contribute to belly fat. There are healthy drink choices out there, and I have compiled a list of the top 5.

Water. It is recommended that we consume at least 8 glasses a day, and for good reason. Our bodies are made up of 75% water. Water is fat and calorie free, and has been shown to relieve the symptoms of lower back pain and arthritis. Water is a healthy drink choice that has been used in the prevention of heart disease and stroke. Many times when we feel hungry, we are actually dehydrated, so before you eat, drink a glass of water and see if your hunger pains disappear.

Milk. Milk not only contains the calcium that our bodies need for tooth and bone health, it also contains more electrolytes than water to keep us hydrated. Milk has also been shown to reduce high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and Type 2 diabetes. Three 8oz servings is the recommended daily amount. New studies have even shown that drinking chocolate milk before exercising can help you get the most out of your workout.

Green Tea. Ten years of research in Asia has gone into proving the health benefits of green tea. The anti-oxidants in this healthy drink option have been shown to fight cancer and heart disease. Green tea can also lower cholesterol, prevent diabetes, and aid in fat burning. Drinking a cup of green tea with meals can help keep you healthy, and may actually help you reach your weight loss goals.

Cranberry Juice. Cranberry juice is a natural diuretic that can not only reduce bloating associated with menstruation, but it can also prevent kidney stones and urinary tract infections, as well as reduce the occurrence of dental plaque. The Cranberry Juice Diet is an extreme detoxification regime where a person consumes nothing but this healthy beverage for 3 days to remove toxins from the body. This can be a helpful way to jump-start your diet plan.

Carrot Juice. Carrots are the best source of beta-carotene. They are also an excellent source of B-vitamins and other healthy minerals. Carrot juice contains anti-oxidants that can have an anti-aging effect and prevent certain types of cancer. The vitamins and minerals in carrot juice are also essential to good eye health.

When considering healthy drink options, remember that natural is always better. Stay away from drinks and juices that have added ingredients like sugar, artificial sweeteners, added colors, or preservatives.

www.health-benefit-of-water.com
www.milk.co.uk
www.webmd.com
www.cranberryjuice.com
www.edubook.com

Published by Dallas Bolen

I am happily married, and living in WV with my husband and two dogs. My career has spanned many areas of healthcare. I have many interests, the most important being ongoing educational endeavors.  View profile

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