Today I am posting my list of beverages that should be added to your daily diet!!!
1. Water-- Of course I am going to start with the most basic. Water is necessary for our bodies basic functions! Our bodies weight is made up of 60 percent water! We need it to flush out toxins, and carry nutrients to cells. There has been some concern with water safety and quality. Recently 31 U.S. cities were found to have large amounts of a chemical called hexavalent chromium. It is an industrial chemical that is said to be a carcinogen. The best way to safely enjoy water is to have a water filter. Look for ones that are NSF/Ansi standard 53.
2. Green Tea-- My favorite beverage has to be green tea. I love it hot and cold. Green tea contains a crazy amount of antioxidants that can do a lot of amazing things. They can prevent the growth of cancer cells and even kill cancer cells. The antioxidants are also responsible for lowering cholesterol. Green tea is a great source of vitamins A, D, E, C, B, B5,and K. Some think that it aids in weight loss. Steer clear of bottled green teas. They often are full of additives and sugars. The best way to enjoy is to brew from a bag. It can be made hot or cold!! I try to drink a least 2 cups day!!
3. Vegetable juices-- There is no better way to get your veggies than to have a jucier. With a juicer you can control what veggies you intake and also mix them with fruit to make them taste better. Juicers are fairly inexpensive and fun to use. My kids love using it and are more willing to drinking the juices if they make them themselves. I try to use my juicer twice a week. My favorite mixture it is 2 apples and 8-10 little baby carrots, and a little spinach. The carrot pulp left over can be used in many recipes such as carrot cake! If you don't have a juicer store juices like v-8 low sodium and V-8 fusion light are good drinks. The V8 fusion drinks contain fruit and vegetable juices! Just be sure to get the light!
4. Coffee-- Coffee gets a lot of negative news but all in all it can be a good drink. It is all about quantity and what you put in it. A recent study found that coffee drinkers are less likely to get type 2 diabetes. It is also thought to play a role in preventing strokes in woman. It is also thought to decrease risk for Alzheimer disease and Parkinson disease. It is recommended due to it's high caffeine amount to be avoided by pregnant woman. If you drink one to two cups a day you should be ok. Oh, and limit your fancy cafe mocha, frappé drinks. They can be high in calories!!!
Bottom line is that we all have to drink something to stay alive. Hopefully in this new year you will not only add healthier foods to your daily diet but also add more healthier drinks to your routine. I challenge everyone to cut out or cut back on soda's (diet too) and sugary drinks! Here is an idea: Have a tea party!!!
