Sodas or pop, depending on where you are from are drinks consumed in large portions with negative side effects. Regular sodas are packed full of sugar, phosphoric acid, and caffeine. This is a combination that is horrible for weight loss and can easily lead to weight gain and addiction. While many think that substituting diet soda is a simple and easy thing to do, it should be noted that aspartame, the sweetener used to make diet soda sweet, has its own list of negative side effects. All in all, for better health and for weight loss soda should be avoided. But what do we drink instead?
Water- It is well known that we should all drink water each and every day, it is easier said then done. Water may be good for the body, but it isn't as desirable as the high flavor impact of soda and the fizzy feelings that it brings about. There are a few options to help add flavor to your water and make it more appealing. One simple and healthy way to add a bit of extra to your water is to add a bit of lemon or lime juice. This is easy to do with real juices in bottles. If that isn't enough to make water appealing to you then check out carbonated and flavored waters. Just make sure to read the labels. Some flavored waters and vitamin waters contain a lot of calories (usually in the form of sugar) and may contain aspartame as a sweetener instead of sugar, bringing you back to some of the same concerns as soda.
Juice- Some doctors say to avoid juice. But general consensus shows that juice has its place. You should drink it in moderation consuming one or two cups a day rather then eight to ten cups. You also need to make sure you read the labels. All juices should be 100% juice and should never contain high fructose corn syrup. Juice can also be added to seltzer (carbonated) water for a soda like experience. You can also spread out your one to two cups of juice into your water. These juices should not be counted as your daily fruit or vegetable intake. You still need fruits and vegetables for a healthy well balanced diet.
Milk- Low-fat milk is a healthy drink and can also be consumed every day. It should not replace your water, but can be enjoyed as an additional drink available. Milk has also shown good results as part of a healthy diet for weight loss programs.
Coffee and Tea- While coffee and tea contain caffeine, they can be a good alternative to soda. They also offer a wide range of options with hot and cold varieties of both available at shops and easy to make at home. You still need to watch what goes into your coffee or tea. Try to sweeten your coffee and tea with honey, safe sweeteners, or small amounts of sugar. If adding milk or cream to either, go for low-fat. Read the labels to any bottled drinks that you buy to make sure that they aren't high in sugar or calories. It should be noted that lattes and cappuccinos (and other mixed drinks available at coffee shops) are usually mostly whole milk and sugar with small amounts of coffee. Ask for a nutrition guide and know what is in your favorite drinks so that you can keep an eye on those empty calories.
Coffee Shop Ordering Tip- If you can't live without the latte, go for sugar free flavors (available in vanilla and caramel at Starbucks) and low-fat milk. Plus, order the smallest size available! Blended drinks are usually a bad idea, but ask if you can't live without it!
Smoothies- A healthy option for a fantastically enjoyable drink is a smoothie. Making your own is the best option because you know what goes into it. If buying at a shop then make sure you check out the nutrition information and ask what goes into it. At home you can make your own by adding fresh fruit, ice (or frozen fruit), juice, and yogurt into the blender and making a tasty treat that is healthy and fruity.
Sports Drinks- Way down on the list comes sports drinks. It comes this far down because many sports drinks contain a lot of calories, which is bad. Read the labels and choose carefully.
It is important that water, whether carbonated, flavored, or juiced up should be the drink of choice. It is best for weight loss and necessary for a healthy lifestyle and a well balanced diet. However, adding other drinks in moderation can help us avoid boredom and offer a wider variety to life. The only thing that needs to be kept in mind is aim for low-fat and fewer calories. Read labels carefully to make your choices and remember that most labels show calories and other information for a single eight ounce serving even if the bottle is two to three times larger then that. Cutting back on soda is a great way to work toward a healthier and leaner you!