Did you know that sugary drinks are the leading source of added sugars in the American diet? People who often drink sugary drinks are more likely to experience health problems. These problems include weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cavities and gout, a type of arthritis. Here are tips for making healthier beverage selections: • Focus on water.
But how much do we actually need? While water is essential, individual needs vary. Our bodies obtain water from both food and drinks. Your body requires more water during hot weather, increased physical activity, when running a fever, or when experiencing diarrhea or vomiting.
Water is affordable and can be stored in clean, reusable bottles. It’s also a calorie-free choice when dining out. • Reduce the calories in your coffee.
Skip the whipped cream and sugary toppings and opt for low-fat milk and a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a lighter coffee experience. Or you can get back to basics with black coffee. • Encourage children to make healthier beverage choices by creating a child-friendly drink station.
Make water, low-fat or fat-free dairy milk or unsweetened seltzer the primary options for your kids. Serve 100% juice on occasion. • Enhance your drink.
Add a burst of flavor to plain water with slices of lemon, lime or orange. You might also try adding fresh mint leaves or a handful of fresh or frozen berries. • How about energy drinks? These beverages are often marketed as products that increase energ.