Navigating the World of Low-Cal Drinks: Your Guide to Healthier Beverage Choices

Navigating the World of Low-Cal Drinks: Your Guide to Healthier Beverage Choices

Are you trying to cut back on sugary beverages but still looking for something satisfying to quench your thirst? With the myriad of low-calorie options available today, choosing the right drink can be overwhelming. Let’s explore some popular choices and learn what to look for in terms of calories, sugars, and artificial ingredients to make healthier beverage decisions.

1. Sparkling Water Alternatives:

Sparkling waters are a fantastic option for those who enjoy the fizzy texture of soda but want to avoid the calories and sugars. For instance:

– Liquid Death: This brand offers sparkling water that is completely calorie-free and contains no sugars or artificial sweeteners.

– LaCroix: Another popular choice, LaCroix sparkling waters are also free of calories, sugars, and artificial ingredients, available in a variety of natural flavors.

– Bubly: Similar to the others, Bubly provides a zero-calorie, zero-sugar drink with no artificial sweeteners, available in flavors like cherry, lime, and grapefruit.

2. Low-Carb Beverage Choices:

Reducing carbohydrate intake doesn’t mean you have to give up flavorful drinks:

– Bai Antioxidant Infusions: Each serving contains only 10 calories and 1-2 grams of sugar, thanks to the sweeteners erythritol and stevia. It’s a great choice for a low-carb, flavorful hydration option.

– Pure Leaf Unsweetened Tea: Completely free of calories and sugars, this tea is an excellent choice for those looking for a simple, healthy drink.

– Tejava: A purely micro-brewed black tea, offering zero calories and no added ingredients, perfect for those avoiding any sugar.

3. Flavored Powder Mixes:

Convenient and portable, these mixes can transform plain water into a flavorful beverage:

– Crystal Light: A popular brand that offers a variety of flavors like lemonade and raspberry ice, typically containing 5-10 calories per serving with artificial sweeteners such as aspartame.

– True Lemon: Provides crystallized citrus flavor packets with zero calories and no artificial sweeteners, a healthier choice among powder mixes.

Making Informed Choices:

Always read the label for nutritional facts:

  • Artificial sweeteners to watch for include aspartame, sucralose, and saccharin, which might be concerning for some individuals.
  • Natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit extract can be preferable but should still be consumed in moderation.
  • Be aware of the serving size; some beverages might seem low in calories per serving but can add up if consuming multiple servings.

Choosing low-calorie drinks doesn’t mean you have to compromise on taste or enjoyment. By understanding the nutritional content and being mindful of what’s in your beverages, you can make choices that fit your health and dietary needs. Remember, hydration is key, and while these low-cal options are great, nothing replaces good old-fashioned water for maintaining optimal hydration.

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Dr. Kulka

Dr. Kulka is a board-certified family medicine physician with 20 years of clinical experience. Placing an emphasis on improving wellness and avoiding illness, Dr. Kulka has a passion for educating people about their health, weight loss options, and specific medical concerns in an easy-to-understand way.

If you, like so many people, struggle to be consistent with your healthy diet and exercise routine, or feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start on your journey to a healthier lifestyle, check out our Seriously Simple Steps to Health and Wellness program.

Honored to be quoted in EatingWell’s “6 “Bad” Carbs to Support Your Brain Health, Recommended by Health Experts”

Honored to be quoted in EatingWell’s “6 “Bad” Carbs to Support Your Brain Health, Recommended by Health Experts”

I was delighted to contribute to the recent article in EATINGNWELL about carbohydrates that are actually considered healthy and support brain health, as recognized by multiple medical experts. The article was also piMaintaining brain health is vital for overall well-being, as the brain serves as the command center for the body’s functions. Various lifestyle habits, including regular exercise, sufficient sleep, stress management, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities, contribute to optimal brain function. Additionally, incorporating specific nutrients into the diet, such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins, can support brain health and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

Authored by Lauren Manaker M.S., RDN, the article emphasizes the importance of understanding carbohydrates’ role in brain health., often vilified in certain dietary trends like keto, are essential for brain health as they provide glucose, the brain’s primary energy source. However, not all carbs are created equal, and options high in added sugars may have adverse effects on brain health by promoting inflammation and oxidative stress. Contrary to popular belief, some carb-containing foods traditionally considered “bad” for brain health actually offer benefits when consumed in moderation.

Six “bad” carbs that can support brain health include potatoes, prunes, honey, whole-grain bread, brown rice, and enriched grains. These foods provide essential nutrients such as potassium, antioxidants, fiber, and B vitamins, which contribute to cognitive function and overall brain health. Incorporating a variety of nutritious foods, including these surprising carb sources, into the diet can help maintain brain health and support cognitive function in the long term This popular article has also been picked up by Yahoo and MSN, further spreading awareness about the importance of these foods for brain health.

Healthy Tips and Tricks Delivered to your Inbox

Enter your email below and I’ll send you delicious recipes, articles, and tips to get control of your health and simple steps to maintain it.

Dr. Kulka

Dr. Kulka is a board-certified family medicine physician with 20 years of clinical experience. Placing an emphasis on improving wellness and avoiding illness, Dr. Kulka has a passion for educating people about their health, weight loss options, and specific medical concerns in an easy-to-understand way.

If you, like so many people, struggle to be consistent with your healthy diet and exercise routine, or feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start on your journey to a healthier lifestyle, check out our Seriously Simple Steps to Health and Wellness program.