It’s not just soda that packs on the pounds. A glass of orange juice can deliver over 20 grams of sugar and 100 calories. That frozen mocha latte (even without the whipped cream) can set you back by 450 calories. If you keep track of what you ingest, pay special attention to your beverages. Why waste calories when you could be sparing, still feed yourself nutritionally, and lose weight?

Water, Really?

Yes, and you know it. Zero calories. That’s right. Instead of a glass of cranberry juice cocktail, you could eat some blueberries, a strawberry, a couple of almonds, and drink a full jug of water for the same amount of calories and boost your vitamin intake.
Now imagine you weren’t even hungry and you traded in the juice for water—tada! You’ve just lowered your caloric intake and remain on your path to weight loss. If plain water gets too monotonous, infuse sliced cucumber and fresh lemon and lime slices into a pitcher in the fridge overnight. Delicious and thirst quenching.

Cold-Brewed Coffee

This is different than plain old iced coffee. Coffee that’s been sitting out or placed in the fridge for a while loses some of its fresh flavor and worse, most of its polyphenols. Polyphenols are chemicals found in plant-based foods, including the bean from the coffee plant; they have been found to assist with balancing metabolism and are also antioxidant-rich. So, the best way to reap these benefits is to brew your coffee and immediately pour over ice. As a treat, add ¼ cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk for only 10 calories.

More Teas

Of course we know about the fabulous benefits of green tea. Mint tea has similar properties that help with digestion and metabolism. Adding jasmine, lemon, or honey adds very few calories but maximizes the flavor. Oolong tea has a floral essence adding a burst of catechins, which promote weight loss.
White tea can help stop fat cells from forming, and contains three times as many antioxidants as green tea. Teas can be healthy and hydrating; if, however, you are drinking tea with caffeine, take care because studies have shown that if you consume 500mg or more per day, you may actually cause dehydration.

Organic Milk

Drinking two-percent organic cow’s milk in moderation can also promote good health and weight loss. It contains omega-3 and linoleic acids, and providing you’re not lactose intolerant, aids in digestion. Soy milk and almond milk are also healthy alternatives as long as you drink the unsweetened, organic versions.
Say yes to hydrating, no thank you to empty calories, and hello to shedding a few pounds!