Is That Drink Really Healthy?

 

These days, there are more “health drinks” lining supermarket shelves than ever before. But don’t start guzzling just yet! Although these concoctions promise a bevy of vitamins, energy or other “super” ingredients, there’s typically a catch. Read on for the scoop on popular “health” beverages.

The Drink	The Buzz	The Reality
Energy Drinks	Usually loaded with sugar and caffeine, these beverages will power you through the day (or night).	These may cause insomnia, nervousness, irritability, stomach upset and even heart palpitations. Get your caffeine fix from coffee or tea instead.
Vitamin-Enhanced Water	The promise: to give you more energy, improve your memory or help you boost your immune system.	They’re predominantly sugar water with some vitamins, minerals and flavorings thrown in. If you suspect your diet is lacking, skip these drinks and take a multivitamin.
"Super Fruit" Drinks	Juice made from exotic fruits like acai and goji berry are packed with antioxidants and other nutrients that will help fight joint pain, heart disease, cancer and more.	Yes, they have antioxidants—but so do more common juices like orange and grape! Plus, many of these drinks have added sugar or corn syrup. Only choose ones that contain 100% fruit juice and drink them in moderation.
Bottled Iced Tea	It’s packed with disease-fighting antioxidants, making it a healthier pick than soda.	Tea drinkers—especially green tea drinkers—may have a lower risk of stroke, memory problems and certain cancers, probably thanks to the antioxidants. But antioxidants break down over time, so freshly made tea is better. Bottled teas are often also loaded with calories. My advice: Brew your own tea.
Diet Drinks	Sodas and tea made with artificial sweeteners like aspartame (Equal Classic or NutraSweet), sucralose (Splenda) are popular because they usually have no or a very small amount of calories.	Though there’s nothing wrong with having an artificially drink on occasion—though, if you do have one, opt for one sweetened with a natural sweetener, like Truvia or steve—diet drinks are not a fool-proof dieting choice, as they may actually remind your taste buds of sugar, which could intensify your cravings and cause you to eat more sweet foods or drinks.