When you think of good-for-you beverages, water immediately comes to mind, but there are others worth adding to your diet. Water is a healthy and safe bet, sure. In fact, it can’t be beat. So what do you do when you want more options but don’t want to stray from the healthy side of things? For girls who avoid beverages as a healthy choice, I have compiled the best drinks that are healthier than water:
GREEN TEA
Green tea contains compounds called flavonoids that may help prevent disease when consumed. Drinking three cups of tea a day can reduce the risk of heart attack. Green tea also contains fluoride, which strengthens teeth; the flavonoids may build up bones as well! Drinking green tea might also help people who are trying to lose weight.
COCONUT WATER
Coconut water has been shown to decrease blood pressure in hypertensive subjects. Add some fruit to it for additional flavour, or add some to your fruit juices. If you like the taste of coconut, feel free to drink it in its simple form.
DETOX WATER
Detox water is a great way to add on flavour and nutrients to regular water. You may add fruits along with peels, cucumber, mint etc. almost anything of your choice. You may also add lemon juice and honey for better tasting detox water! DIY best detox water recipes >>
LOW FAT MILK
Touted as an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D since you were a child, it may seem like less of a grown-up drink than other options, but low fat and skim milk are still great sources of protein and other essential micronutrients.
LEMONADE
Plenty of companies sell lemonades made with less sugar or sugar alternatives. I recommend making your own lemonade as it is easy to make and is cheap! You could also experiment a bit like adding stevia instead of sugar to it. Stevia is a natural, plant based sweetener that has no calories. Stevia not your thing? No worries. Instead, pop the water and lemon juice in the blender, then add watermelon. Blend until smooth, maybe with an ice cube or two, then bottle. Just shake before drinking for an incredibly sweet and delicious drink.
POMEGRANATE JUICE
Research has suggested that pomegranate juice may help prevent inflammation, heart disease, and cancer. So having a glass every now and then is a good choice. Just make sure you look at what you are drinking, as some bottles are diluted with other liquids or have added sugars. You may make one yourself by simply blending the seeds with water.
BEET JUICE
Beets have the ability to lower your blood pressure, increase your stamina, increase the blood flow to the brain in older adults (slowing the progression of dementia), and make for a healthy liver with their zero trans and saturated fats and high magnesium, calcium, and iron levels.