Finding drinks that promote overall health isn’t easy. Some beverages contain hidden preservatives while others are loaded with calories and artificial ingredients. So, what’s the healthiest way to quench your thirst? Here are 10 beverages to stop drinking if you want to stay healthy and which ones you should turn to instead.

1. Alcohol

Having a glass or two isn’t the worst thing for you, but excessive drinking is bad news for your health. Liver damage, an increased risk of certain cancers, and weight gain are all downsides to alcohol consumption. So, keep an eye on how much you have.

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2. Sugary Sodas

Soda is loaded with sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and a bunch of empty calories. The odd can once in a while won’t kill you, but if you drink soda regularly all you’re doing is making yourself susceptible to type 2 diabetes and dental problems, like cavities or enamel erosion. 

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3. Energy Drinks

Forget the promise of staying awake—energy drinks are packed with caffeine, sugar, and artificial ingredients that do more harm than good. Excessive consumption has been linked to heartbeat irregularities, high blood pressure, and weight gain. Not to mention, drinking them too much can lead to anxiety or digestive issues.

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4. Sports Drinks

Though they’re often packaged as a rehydration solution, sports drinks can contain a ton of sugar, sodium, and artificial additives. While they do help after a good workout session, drink too many of them and you’re looking at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, weight gain, and even gout. 

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5. High-Calorie Caffeinated Drinks

A cup of Joe is a good boost in the morning. However, high-calorie versions like frappuccinos or mochas only pile on sugars, whole milk, or whipped cream, all of which lead to an explosion of calories. In fact, some of these drinks can tip over 1,000 calories!

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6. Flavored Water

Sure, it might taste good, but flavoring comes with plenty of sugars and preservatives. Among other things, flavored water can, and will, target your dental health. It’s best not to consume it in excessive amounts.

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7. Prepackaged Smoothies

Smoothies are a great way to get your daily dose of fruits, veggies, and protein. However, the prepackaged variety often comes loaded with preservatives, sugar, and artificial flavors. They also lack the fiber and nutrition that a homemade one offers.

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8. Sweetened Iced Tea

Do yourself a favor: the next time you reach for sweetened iced tea, have a look at the ingredients first. Bottled or canned iced tea often contains high levels of sugar—drink too many of these and you’ll likely experience weight gain, dental problems, and an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes. 

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9. Diet Sodas

A healthy alternative to regular soda seems like the diet version, right? Think again. Diet versions don’t come with the same levels of sugar or calories as their regular counterparts, but they do have a ton of additives and sweeteners that also contribute to weight gain and cardiovascular problems.

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10. Fruit Juice

Fruit juice might seem like a good idea on the surface, but it often comes loaded with sugar and high calories. It also lacks the nutrients and fiber you need to maintain a healthy diet, meaning they’re best avoided in large quantities. 

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Now let’s have a look at what you should be drinking instead.

1. Water

A no-brainer, water is the stuff of life and one of the healthiest beverages for you! Not only is water calorie-free, it maintains regular bodily functions, promotes healthy digestion, and has added benefits like weight management. 

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2. Green Tea

Green tea brings a lot to the table. It’s packed with antioxidants, has been linked to improved heart health, and can even improve brain function. Not to mention, it has a modest amount of caffeine, so you get the best of both worlds.

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3. Vegetable Juice

Fresh vegetable juice brings vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants right to your glass. Regular intake of vegetable juice can also improve your digestion, immune function, and promotes healthy skin.

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4. Kombucha

Kombucha is a fermented tea that’s chock-full of probiotics. These probiotics significantly support gut health and digestion, making it a solid choice for those looking to stay healthy. Kombucha is also great for detoxing and reducing inflammation.

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5. Sparkling Water

If you’re itching for flavor or carbonation, sparkling water is a great alternative to the regular stuff. They come infused with a variety of tasty flavors, boast no calories, and aren’t full of hidden sugars.

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6. Low-Fat Milk

Bone health is important at any age. Filled with vitamins, calcium, and protein, low-fat milk supports bone health and muscle function. Adding it to your diet can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and give you a healthy serving of nutrients. 

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7. Green Smoothies

Smoothies packed with leafy greens like spinach or kale offer the nutrients and vitamins essential to your health. Add some fruit, water, or low-fat milk in there and you’re on a fast track to boosted energy levels, more vitamins, and increased vegetable intake.

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8. Bone Broth

Bone broth is packed with healthy nutrients like collagen, amino acids, and minerals that all help keep your joints and digestion in check. Regular consumption has also been linked to reduced inflammation.

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9. Tart Cherry Juice

Cherries in general are high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that alleviate muscle soreness and joint pain. Drinking tart cherry juice regularly can not only help with these issues, but promotes overall health.

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10. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint is a soothing herb all on its own and brewing into a tea only makes it better. You may find that peppermint tea helps with bloating, relieves digestive discomfort, and can even alleviate the symptoms of IBS. 

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