This time of year is notorious for poor nutrition choices and lots of unhealthy drinks. Calories that sneak in through beverages are usually forgotten. This is especially true when we are talking about alcoholic or sugary drinks, including fruit juices and soda. Make healthier beverage choices this holiday season with a few quick swaps. Read on to learn how.
These unhealthy drinks can be found anywhere, tempting you at gas stations, schools, movie theaters, airports, social and family gatherings, your workplace, even at the gym. The average American drinks 400 calories on a daily basis!
Our bodies are most efficient when drinking water. Plus, you'll feel much more satisfied and “full” if you eat your calories rather than drink them. “Don’t Drink Your Calories” is an easy and quick mantra to help you make good nutrition choices.
Here are some easy alternatives to save calories:
- Reduce the size of your coffee and cut down on or eliminate the sweeter to save calories
- Grab water with your lunch rather than soda or juice
- If you're an iced tea lover, try sparkling water with lemon slices. This Lemon-Lime Infused Water is just as refreshing in the colder months as it is in the warmer months.
- Hold the added sugar or flavorings from your smoothie since the fruit is naturally sweet
- Dilute your and your children's fruit juices with water.
- Swap a small chocolate shake for an 8-ounce carton of chocolate milk
- Check-out our December Webinar, all about creating Healthy Holiday Habits.
Still not convinced? We like this infographic from the University of Utah that shows just how much sugar is in common drinks:
Think you can't part with your morning latte or afternoon soda? Try to cut back by just ONE of those each week. Once you've mastered that, Try to cut back on one of them two or three times a week. This stepped approach will help you have more success rather than just going cold-turkey. Speaking of turkey...I better get the bird thawing.
Sources:
http://www.rd.com/health/healthy-eating/dont-drink-your-calories/
http://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/drinks.html
