Weight Gain/Loss Depends on your Beverage Choice Too

People are Mobbed with Myriad Beverage Options

A balance between the calories consumed and calories burnt is an indicator of a healthy body weight. Thus, energy balance is most important for weight management in men and women of any age. Individuals perform some physical activity (calories out) to balance the food and beverages consumed (calories in). Adding to our already existing eating patterns, our drinking patterns also pave way for weight problems.

Soft drinks, sports drinks and sweetened tea consumption have flooded the beverage market and this is a major reason for the upsurge in calorie intake from beverages. The consumption has almost doubled since the 1960s and these additional liquid calories are not balanced by consuming lesser calorie foods or by increased physical activity. These extra beverage calories result in energy imbalance and weight gain. If you are looking for a dietitian/nutritionist to shed away the gained weight, you can find highly talented RDNs at www.firsteatright.com.

So, along with healthy eating choices and physical activity you need to revisit your beverage habits to maintain a healthy weight.

Fulfill your thirst quotient while maintaining the energy balance with these four tips:

Zero-Calorie Water is the Best Thirst Quencher

Water is the best thirst quencher. With zero calories, it keeps your overall body hydrated for optimal physical and mental performance. Every person requires different quantities of water depending on his/her activity level and body physique. Drink plenty of water for your urine to be mostly colorless and odor-free.

Individuals Across All Age Groups Should Consume Milk

Milk should be consumed by both adults and kids alike for healthy bones, teeth and muscle mass. Milk also reduces the risk of high blood pressure. Drink fat-free or low-fat milk for minimal fat and calorie content. Research also claims fat-free milk to be an effective sports drink.

Restrict Fruit Juice and Eat the Whole Fruit

Eating the whole fruit or vegetable is always better than a 100-percent fruit or vegetable juice. Actual fruits and veggies add more fiber to your body and are satisfying. They are also rich in vitamins, minerals and fluids. Even though 100-percent fruit juice also contain nutrients, it’s possible to end up in overdose sometimes.

Be Wary of Super-Calorie Beverages

Most of the other drinks such as soft drinks, sweetened teas, fruit drinks and most sports and “energy” drinks are packed with calories and caffeine too. Coffee drinks are also high in calories, fat and sugar while alcoholic drinks are simply filled with empty calories. So how can you minimize the intake of such drinks?

1.    Read the nutrition label before choosing your drink. Look out for calories, caffeine, sugar and fat content of the drink. If you are not able to find them on the label, check out the company’s website.

2.    Stay away from “energy” drinks, highly caffeinated beverages and alcohol.

3.    If you still want to go for the calorie-rich beverages, buy the smallest sized portions. Moderation is best suited in such cases.