Water is definitely healthy and safe bet, but there are many other healthy beverages you can order when the waiter comes to you. Sugary drinks, like energy drinks, sport beverages and soda don’t belong to this group and should be limited or consumed in moderation. Alcohol in moderation can be healthy, but not for everyone.
Water
When you think of good for you beverages, water probably is the first that comes to your mind. And because water is calorie-free, sugar-free and easy to find, it is the best choice for all of you. It provides everything your body needs: pure H 2 O to restore fluids lost through sweating, breathing, metabolism and the removal of waste. I read somewhere that women should drink about 11 cups (91 ounces) and men 15 cups (125 ounces) of water.
Green Tea
Calories: 0
Green tea helps reduce risk of cavities, heart disease, cancer and osteoporosis. It contains a rich concentration of polyphenols and flavonoids, natural antioxidants that inhibit tumor growth and protect cells from carcinogens. These antioxidants may also guard against heart disease. The fluoride in the tea can strengthen your teeth. And the flavonoids may build up bones, reducing the risk of tooth decay and osteoporosis.
One Percent Reduced-Fat Milk
Calories: 120 for 8 ounces
This beverage helps protect against osteoporosis. It contains protein, carbohydrate and a little fat that let you stay full longer. Milk stabilizes blood sugar. It is the ideal source of calcium, because it contains vitamin D, which is needed for maximum calcium absorption. It may also help your body stop storing fat, making it easier to reach and maintain your ideal weight.
Cranberry Juice
Calories: 140 for 8 ounces
Cranberry juice is a very healthy beverage that can be found in health-food stores and supermarkets. It has antibacterial properties that help prevent gum disease, fight off urinary tract infections and may also protect against periodontal disease. Some studies show that a component of the cranberry juice called NDM (nondialysable material) inhibits bacteria from sticking to the gums. Nutritionists recommend to limit your intake to one glass daily, because of the sugar content. Keep in mind to buy 100 percent juice, not cocktail or juice drink.
Orange Juice
Calories: 115 for 8 ounces
Orange juice may boost immunity and ward off birth defect, cancers, cataracts. It is a great source of vitamin C and it is a potent antioxidant that may protect against a variety of diseases including lung cancer and cataracts. It is well known that the vitamin C improves immune-cell functioning, enabling your body to fight infections more efficiently. Vitamin C also may prevent oxidative damage that can cause cells to become cancerous. It is a good source of folate, which protects against neutral-tube defects in fetuses. Seasonal allergies have been shown to be soothed with both quecetin and vitamin C, both found in freshly squeezed orange juice.