It seems that everywhere you turn, there’s an ad for sports drinks, soda, and juices. What these ads often neglect to tell you, is that these beverages are packed with added sugar and artificial sweeteners. This sugar adds up to a mound of unwanted calories, over the course of the day! Let’s take a look at a few popular sugary beverages, as well as a their healthy alternatives.
- Soda
According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 1 out of 5 people in America consume at least one can of soda per day. A single can of soda can have over 50g of sugar and up to 200 calories!
Next time you’re facing a carbonation craving, reach for a naturally flavored sparkling water. Be mindful of artificial sweeteners when making your decision. The ingredients should only include carbonated water and natural flavoring. This swap is easy, and still gives you a crisp, refreshing beverage but without the sugar and calories!
- Fruit Juice
There is a common misconception that all fruit juices are good for you because they’re fruit. This is unfortunately not the case, as many fruit juices harbor more sugar than a regular size candy bar. Ditch the fruit juice and go right to the source — the fruit! You can save yourself a bunch of unwanted calories by simply swapping out the fruit juice for a piece of fruit and a glass of water!
- Sports Drinks
There’s very little good news about a neon colored beverage. They are loaded with empty calories and sugar that may actually lead to dehydration! Break the vicious cycle and try this instead! Grab a few empty water bottles and drop in a few slices of lemon, orange, lime, or strawberries and fill the bottles with water. Set them in the fridge overnight to allow the fruit to infuse the water with flavor and enjoy! This option is far more healthy and will leave you feeling refreshed.
- Smoothies
Store-bought smoothies have a way of sneaking loads of sugar and other additives into our diet. Although they are perceived to be healthy, they’re not as healthy as you may think. A popular store-bought smoothie has about 30g of sugar and 300 calories! Instead, we encourage you to grab an apple or an orange to satisfy your sweet tooth, and a tall glass of water to satisfy your thirst!
- Sweet Tea
Tea can be a healthy way to hydrate; that is until extra sugar is added! Instead brew some tea or coffee at home and enjoy naturally, or add stevia! Stevia is a natural sweetener, extracted from the leaves of the plant species stevia rebaudiana. It is calorie-free and does not raise your blood sugar level. Sounds like a sweet deal!
Making an effort to not drink your calories can make a substantial difference in your weight loss success. Making these few swaps are an easy and effective way to stay on track. These tips will be especially useful if you are on the hCG diet weight loss plan! If you are looking for a safe and effective way to lose weight, we recommend calling the Complete Medical Weight Loss Clinic! Schedule a visit and determine if our program’s diet plan, prescription appetite suppressants, and optional injections will help you reach your weight loss objectives!