5 Top Sizzling Summer Thirst Quenchers
Thirsty? During the hot summer months it is important to hydrate and enjoy a tall and tasty drink. Try this calculator to figure out just how much fluid you should drink, http://nutrition.about.com/library/blwatercalculator.htm
Enjoy your fun in the sun with a thirst quenching beverage that supplies electrolytes and nutrients for taste and well-being. My top summer drink picks:
- Water will always top my list. Add a slice or two of lemon or lime, cucumber & mint, berries, or any fruit of your choice to replace electrolytes lost from sweating. Clear crisp refreshing always and no calories.
- Make your own vegetable juice or green drink, this one looks OH SO GOOD!,http://www.betternutrition.com/green-smoothie-drink/columns/askthenaturopath/1166
- Watermelon smoothie, see this simple “pinktastic” beverage recipe http://low-cholesterol.food.com/recipe/watermelon-smoothie-33787, much less calories than a 100 calorie snack pack with 25 calories and a good dose of vitamin A and potassium and nutrients that promote good bone health, fluoride, calcium, magnesium and even a little choline
- Rooibos tea(pronounced roy-bos) is caffeine free so it is not dehydrating (maintains fluid and electrolytes) and it does not contain tannins (compounds that decrease iron and amino acid absorption).
- Kefir is packed with nutrients and it supports digestion and bone health. It naturally contains good bacteria and everyone should be consuming a good probiotic. One 4 oz. serving contains 75 calories, 4 grams of fat, 6 grams of carbs and 4 grams of protein.
Honorable mentions, because they are processed but much better options than Gatorade or sugar laden drinks, go to:
- Coconut water (unsweetened, of course) only 60 calories for 11 oz. and 100% is sugar (coconut is a fruit) and about 700 mg potassium but if you like it drink 1/2 (about 5-6 oz) after a workout.
- V-8, although this is a vegetable juice it is processed so has higher amounts of sodium but it does contain vitamins A, C, iron and calcium.
Eating foods that contain high amounts of sodium, sugar and caffeine will increase your fluid needs so keep that in mind if you typically gulp down sugary fruit or sports drinks, soda and even diet soda is filled with sodium. Most items coming in a package that has to be shelved for a while will contain salt or sugar.
Take on a tall and tasty while serving your body fluid and wellness!
About Valerie Berkowitz, MS, RD, CDE, CDN
Valerie is the author of “The Stubborn Fat Fix: The Essential Guide to High Fiber, Low Carbohydrate, Whole Food Diets” and co-author of “The Stubborn Fat Fix”. She is the Director of Nutrition and Health Promotion at the Center for Balanced Health in Manhattan. Her 20 years as a professional registered dietitian, health coach, speaker and writer coupled with her personal journey as a fitness enthusiast, mother and wife who strives for internal peace, happiness and lots of laughs uses this platform to spark your interest in achieving your personal best health.
For more information and tips, please visit Valerie's blog
