When it comes to choosing a healthy drink, the grocery store can be overwhelming. With so many options labeled as "healthy," it can be difficult to know which ones are truly good for you. To help you make an informed decision, we asked a panel of expert nutritionists to rank the best and worst "healthy" drinks available at the grocery store.
According to our experts, the top pick for a healthy drink is plain water. Not only is it calorie-free and hydrating, but it's also essential for maintaining overall health. Unsweetened tea and coffee also made the list of top picks, as they are also calorie-free and can have beneficial antioxidants.
On the other hand, some of the worst "healthy" drink options at the grocery store include juice and sports drinks. While they may be marketed as healthy, they often have high sugar and calorie content. Juice, in particular, is a concentrated source of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues when consumed in excess. Similarly, sports drinks are often marketed to athletes, but they can also be high in sugar and calories, making them a poor choice for most people.
Other drinks that earned low marks from our nutritionists include sweetened teas, energy drinks, and vitamin-enhanced water. These drinks are often high in sugar, artificial ingredients, and added calories, making them less healthy than their unsweetened counterparts.
When it comes to choosing a healthy drink, it's important to read the label and be aware of added sugars and calories. Stick with calorie-free options like water, unsweetened tea, and coffee, and sparkling water. If you're looking for something with more flavor, try adding a slice of lemon or lime to your water or steeping your own herbal tea with fresh mint or berries.
In summary, our expert nutritionists recommend that when shopping for "healthy" drinks at the grocery store, you should opt for calorie-free options like water, unsweetened tea and coffee, and sparkling water. Avoid juice, sports drinks, sweetened teas, energy drinks, and vitamin-enhanced water. By following this guide, you can make informed choices and support your overall health and wellness.