Every time you step into your local grocery store to pick up some items, you may find yourself drawn to the refrigerated section stocked with nutritious drinks. The eye-catching cans and bottles filled with vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes are quite tempting.
However, do these beverages truly offer the health benefits they claim, despite their high prices? Or are they essentially sugary calorie bombs? To shed light on this, we consulted registered dietitians.
According to the experts, the nutritional value of a drink varies based on your specific dietary requirements and sensitivities. For instance, if you're sensitive to caffeine, you might need to avoid certain options. Here are the professionals' insights on today's most popular beverages, ranked from least to most healthful.
The Buzz on Guayaki Yerba Mate
Guayaki yerba mate, although considered a tea and potentially healthy, may not be the best option due to its high calorie and added sugar content. With 120 calories and 28 grams of sugar per can, exceeding the American Heart Association’s recommended sugar limits, it might not be the ideal choice for a single drink.
Pom Pomegranate Juice Appeal
While Pom pomegranate juice is a long-time favorite, consisting of 100% juice with no added sugar, its concentrated nature results in high carb and sugar content. At 39 grams of carbs and 34 grams of sugar, consuming it in moderation alongside protein and fiber to stabilize glucose levels is advisable.
Wtrmln Wtr: The Fruit Juice Dilemma
Wtrmln Wtr, while tasty, poses challenges for those seeking health benefits, being a fruit juice rich in carbs and natural sugar, amounting to around 18 grams. Due to the absence of fiber in juice and its potential to spike blood sugar, moderation and pairing with protein and fiber are recommended.
Unraveling GT’s Synergy Raw Kombucha
The health benefits of kombucha remain uncertain due to limited scientific evidence. Although some studies indicate potential antioxidant effects, the high sugar content in some commercial kombuchas like GT’s Synergy Raw variety emphasizes the importance of sugar-conscious consumption.
Deciphering Rebbl Plant-Based Coconut Elixirs
Labeling itself as a provider of plant-based superfoods for various health advantages, Rebbl’s coconut elixirs boast 24 grams of carbs, raising questions about certain ingredients calling for further research to determine safe consumption limits and potential effects on immune response.
The Quandary of Prebiotic Sodas: Poppi vs. Olipop
Both Poppi and Olipop offer prebiotic sodas marketed as healthier alternatives to traditional sodas. Poppi’s caffeine content and use of inulin as a prebiotic fiber isolate warrant caution, amidst ongoing concerns about its effects on liver function. Meanwhile, Olipop’s innovative ingredients present potential gut health benefits, albeit with considerations for individuals with digestive sensitivities.
Endorsement for Harmless Harvest Coconut Water
Harmless Harvest coconut water receives praise from nutritionists for its simplicity, consisting solely of coconut water without added sugar. Rich in potassium and magnesium, it offers a natural source of electrolytes, although lower in sodium and calcium compared to artificial sports drinks.
Spindrift Sparkling Water: A Real Fruit Infusion
Spindrift’s real fruit juice-infused sparkling water receives accolades for its natural flavors and minimal use of artificial additives. While containing more sugar than regular sparkling water, it provides a healthier alternative to sugary beverages.
Topo Chico: The Mineral Water Marvel
Rounding off the list is Topo Chico mineral water, celebrated for its pure composition of water and carbon dioxide. With no carbs or added sugar, it stands out as a straightforward and refreshing sparkling water choice with natural mineral content.
In conclusion, the key to enjoying these popular healthy drinks lies in moderation. Each beverage offers unique characteristics, with some better suited for specific dietary preferences and health goals. By staying informed about ingredients and making mindful choices, consumers can savor their favorite beverages responsibly.
Are 'Healthy' Drinks Actually Good For You? | Business Insider Explains | Business Insider
Video by Business Insider
