Who doesn’t like a refreshing drink on a hot summer day or a cozy cup of coffee in the morning? The problem is that most of our favorite beverages are loaded with sugar, cream, and other additives that can harm our heart health.
Here are 30 alternatives to heart-harming drinks that will quench your thirst and nourish your body:.
1. Water
Drinking water is the best thing you can do for your health, and it’s free. Water helps flush out toxins, regulate body temperature, and support digestion.
If you find plain water boring, add some lemon slices, cucumber, or mint to make it more flavorful.
2. Herbal Teas
Herbal teas are a great way to hydrate your body and boost your immunity. Depending on the blend, they can also help you relax, soothe your digestive system, or energize your body.
Some popular herbal teas include chamomile, peppermint, ginger, and hibiscus.
3. Fruit Infused Water
If you want to add some flavor to your water without adding calories or sugar, fruit infused water is a great choice. Simply add some chopped fruits, such as strawberries, apples, or watermelon, to your water and let it sit for a few hours.
The fruit will infuse the water with its natural sweetness and nutrients.
4. Coconut Water
Coconut water is a natural electrolyte drink that can help you rehydrate after a workout or a hot day. It’s low in calories, high in potassium, and contains antioxidants and minerals that can support your heart health.
5. Green Tea
Green tea is a popular beverage in many cultures for its health benefits. It contains antioxidants, caffeine, and other compounds that can boost your metabolism, lower your risk of heart disease, and protect your cells from damage.
6. Black Tea
Black tea is another type of tea that can offer health benefits. It contains caffeine and antioxidants that can improve your brain function, lower your blood pressure, and reduce your risk of stroke and heart disease.
7. Matcha Tea
Matcha tea is a powdered green tea that has become popular in recent years for its unique flavor and health benefits.
It’s high in antioxidants, amino acids, and other compounds that can improve your focus, boost your energy, and support your heart health.
8. Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented tea drink that has become popular for its probiotic properties.
It’s made by fermenting sweetened tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), which creates a slightly sour, fizzy drink that can improve your gut health and support your immune system.
9. Sparkling Water
If you like carbonated drinks but want to avoid the sugar and calories in sodas, sparkling water is a great alternative. It’s just water with added carbon dioxide, which gives it a refreshing fizz.
You can find flavored sparkling water in most stores, but make sure to read the label and avoid artificial sweeteners and additives.
10. Mineral Water
Mineral water is a natural source of minerals and trace elements that can benefit your health. Depending on the source, it can be high in calcium, magnesium, potassium, and other nutrients that support your heart and bone health.
Just make sure to choose a brand that is low in sodium.
11. Freshly Squeezed Juice
Juice can be a great way to pack some vitamins and antioxidants into your diet, but be careful about the type and amount of juice you consume.
Store-bought juices are often loaded with sugar and preservatives, so it’s best to make your own juice at home using fresh fruits and vegetables. Some great juice combinations include carrot, apple, and ginger; kale, cucumber, and lemon; and orange, cranberry, and pomegranate.
12. Smoothies
Smoothies are another way to enjoy the goodness of fruits and veggies in a drinkable form. You can make your own smoothie at home using a blender or buy one at a smoothie bar.
Just make sure to choose a smoothie that is low in sugar and high in fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Some easy smoothie recipes include banana and peanut butter; blueberry and almond milk; and spinach, mango, and coconut water.
13. Almond Milk
Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative to milk that can provide you with healthy fats, protein, and fiber. It’s low in calories and can be used in smoothies, cereals, and baking recipes.
Just make sure to choose an unsweetened almond milk that is fortified with calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients.
14. Soy Milk
Soy milk is another plant-based milk alternative that can offer health benefits. It’s low in saturated fat, high in protein, and contains antioxidants and other compounds that can protect your heart and bones.
Make sure to choose a non-GMO soy milk that is fortified with calcium and vitamin D.
15. Oat Milk
Oat milk is a new addition to the plant-based milk market that has gained popularity for its creamy texture and mild flavor. It’s low in fat, high in fiber, and can be used in coffee, cereal, and baking recipes.
Make sure to choose an unsweetened oat milk that is fortified with calcium and vitamin D.
16. Rice Milk
Rice milk is another option for those who are lactose intolerant or allergic to nuts and soy.
It’s low in fat, but also low in protein and other nutrients, so make sure to choose a fortified rice milk that contains calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients.
17. Veggie Juice
Veggie juice is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables in a concentrated form. You can make your own juice using a juicer or buy one at a juice bar. Just make sure to choose a juice that is low in sugar and high in fiber and nutrients.
Some great veggie juice combinations include cucumber, spinach, and lemon; beet, carrot, and ginger; and kale, celery, and apple.
18. Hot Cocoa
If you crave a warm and comforting drink on a cold day, hot cocoa can be a healthy choice if you make it right. Choose a cocoa powder that is low in sugar and high in cocoa solids (at least 70%).
Add some almond milk or oat milk instead of dairy milk and a dash of cinnamon or vanilla extract for flavor.
19. Iced Cocoa
If you prefer a cold cocoa drink, you can make it iced by blending cocoa powder, almond milk, and ice cubes in a blender. You can also add some frozen bananas or berries for extra flavor and nutrition.
20. Hot Apple Cider
Hot apple cider is a classic fall drink that can warm you up and boost your immune system. Choose an organic apple cider that is free from added sugars and preservatives, and add some cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg for flavor.
21. Fresh Lemonade
Lemonade is a refreshing drink that can also provide you with vitamin C and antioxidants. Make your own lemonade at home by squeezing some lemons, adding water and a natural sweetener like honey, and garnishing it with some mint leaves or berries.
22. Fresh Orange Juice
Orange juice is another classic juice that can provide you with vitamin C and energy. Make your own orange juice at home using a juicer or squeeze some oranges by hand.
Just make sure to avoid store-bought orange juices that are high in sugar and additives.
23. Fresh Grapefruit Juice
Grapefruit juice is a tangy and refreshing juice that can also help you lose weight and lower your cholesterol. Some studies have shown that grapefruit juice can boost your metabolism and reduce your appetite.
Make your own grapefruit juice at home using a juicer or buy a natural grapefruit juice without added sugars.
24. Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate juice is a superfood juice that can provide you with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Some studies have shown that pomegranate juice can improve your heart health, reduce inflammation, and protect your cells from damage.
Choose a natural pomegranate juice that is free from added sugars and preservatives.
25. Tomato Juice
Tomato juice is a savory juice that can provide you with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that can reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease.
Make your own tomato juice at home using a juicer or buy a natural tomato juice that is low in sodium and additives.
26. Beet Juice
Beet juice is a vibrant red juice that can provide you with nitrates, which can improve your athletic performance and lower your blood pressure. Some studies have also shown that beet juice can improve your cognitive function and reduce inflammation.
Make your own beet juice at home using a juicer or buy a natural beet juice without added sugars.
27. Carrot Juice
Carrot juice is a sweet and nutritious juice that can provide you with beta-carotene, which can improve your vision and skin health. Some studies have also shown that carrot juice can reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease.
Make your own carrot juice at home using a juicer or buy a natural carrot juice that is free from added sugars and preservatives.
28. Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera juice is a natural drink that can soothe your digestive system, boost your immunity, and improve your skin health. It’s low in calories and can be mixed with other juices or water for flavor.
However, make sure to choose a pure aloe vera juice that is free from added sugars and preservatives.
29. Ginger Tea
Ginger tea is a spicy and warming beverage that can also provide you with anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits. It can soothe a sore throat, reduce nausea and bloating, and improve your circulation.
Make your own ginger tea at home by adding some fresh ginger slices to hot water, or buy a natural ginger tea without added sugars and flavors.
30. Cinnamon Tea
Cinnamon tea is a sweet and aromatic tea that can provide you with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and blood sugar regulating benefits.
It can improve your insulin sensitivity, reduce your risk of heart disease and Alzheimer’s, and boost your metabolism. Make your own cinnamon tea at home by adding some cinnamon sticks to hot water, or buy a natural cinnamon tea without added sugars and flavors.