Liquids are commonly consumed through various beverages, ranging from simple water to soft drinks, iced teas, and alcoholic drinks. These drinks are loved for their delightful flavors and convenience. Yet, many prevalent drinks can be surprisingly unhealthy, potentially leading to significant health issues if consumed excessively or unwisely.
Choosing Between Bottled and Tap Water
While many perceive bottled water to be purer, it isn’t always the healthier option. Some bottled waters might contain more impurities than tap water and are stored in plastic that may introduce chemicals. Surprisingly, certain bottled waters even include added sugars to enhance their flavor. For those who prefer bottled water, opting for glass containers or refilling a reusable bottle with filtered tap water is advised.
Concerns with Bottled Water Brands
In the search for a healthier alternative to sodas, many have turned to bottled water. However, their switch might not be as safe as presumed. A report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) highlighted that several renowned bottled water brands had contaminants, including nitrates and fecal bacteria, which can cause digestive ailments. Shockingly, some brands don’t even reveal their water source or purification methods. Hence, for health considerations, it might be best to rely on properly filtered tap water.
Moderation is Key with Coffee
Research from Vanderbilt University indicated that women consuming three to five coffee cups daily had a decreased risk of premature death by 20% in comparison to non-coffee drinkers. It’s recommended for most adults to limit their coffee intake to around two cups daily. While savoring an occasional extra cup is acceptable, monitoring the quantity of cream and sugar is essential to avoid excessive calorie intake. Furthermore, coffee is known to potentially reduce type 2 diabetes risk. For a healthier coffee experience, it’s advisable to skip sweeteners like sugar and honey. If sweetness is desired, stevia, a plant-based, calorie-free sweetener, is a preferable choice. For those not inclined towards coffee, green tea is an excellent, health-boosting alternative.
Quality Over Cost: Choosing the Right Bottled Juice
The vast variety of fruit juices available can be enticing. However, people with health conditions like diabetes or hypertension should be cautious. Some bottled juices, even those labeled 100% pure, might have hidden sugars and preservatives. Thus, it’s wise to select only genuine, pure fruit juices and consume them in moderation.
Rethinking Convenient Bottled Beverages
Though bottled drinks offer undeniable convenience, they frequently contain unnecessary sugars and additives. For instance, while vitamin water might be beneficial at home, it may not be the healthiest choice outdoors. Always scrutinize nutritional labels before purchase. Astonishingly, some bottled smoothies might have calories equivalent to a portion of french fries!
