What You Drink is Important to Your Health

It is important to remember that along with what you choose to eat, what you drink (or don't drink) has a great impact on your health. If you are careful to eat well, but drink soda or excessive amounts of, fruit beverages, coffee, and/or alcoholic beverages, you may not be as healthy as you could be. That is because these beverages contain a variety of substances that, when consumed in excess, can be harmful to your health. These substances include refined or artificial sweeteners, artificial flavorings, artificial colorings, synthetic preservatives, caffeine, and alcohol. In order to keep your beverage choices at the same peak nourishment level as your food choices, consider the following:

Water: You can't go wrong with high-quality water. This beverage is not only at the top of my list, it is in a category all its own. While your water intake needs will vary from day to day, in its Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) recommendations, the National Academy of Sciences recommends about 13 cups of water each day for most men and 9 cups for most women. Space your intake throughout the day, make sure to rehydrate during and after exercise, and steer clear of excess water drinking during meal times as it interferes with digestion.

100% Fruit Juices: Fruit juice can be healthy when it is 100% fruit juice, with no added sweeteners. But, keep in mind that juice can pack a powerful punch in terms of calories and sugar, so it may not be wise to consume a lot of juice, even 100% fruit juice, if you are trying to lose weight or have blood sugar issues. To take full advantage of the nutrients available in the fruit, press or juice the fruit at home and consume it immediately. For a special occasion, instead of serving soda, make a refreshing and healthy punch by combining sparkling water with 100% cranberry juice, ice, orange slices, and stevia (a natural non-caloric sweetener) in a large bowl. (Remember that while 100% fruit juice may be a healthful beverage, it shouldn't be thought of as a substitute for whole fresh fruit.)

Iced Herbal Tea: Instead of regular iced tea, treat yourself to a cool drink of herbal iced tea. Many herbs are rich in powerful antioxidants, which support the immune system and overall health. Brew the tea stronger than you would if you were planning to serve the tea hot and then add ice and a sprig of mint or a slice of lemon. Peppermint tea is wonderful when served cold. Or, try a combination of various herbs: chamomile, hibiscus flower, lemon grass, orange peel, rose hips, and strawberry leaf.

__________________________

Extracted from WHFoods.Org