Nourishing Beverages

Drinking water is on top of the list for maintaining good health while quenching our thirst. It maintains our bodily functions, hydrates our skin and carries out toxins and waste from our bodies. However, there is a demand for variety in our diets. One could simply infuse fruits and green herbs (such as mint or cilantro) into their water to add benefits and boost flavor, but there are other options.

Coconut water

Photo Credit: Diego Torres Silvestre

Equally hydrating as water (1), coconut water earned the title as a "natural sports drink". It is a great source for electrolyte replacement with a fair percentage of electrolytes per serving (2):

*12%  Potassium 

-Lowers blood pressure (3)
-Stabilizes blood sugar (4)
-Encourages and maintains proper brain function (5)

*15% Magnesium (5)

-Supports proper nerve function
-Aids in cardiovascular health
-Active mineral in energy production

*6% Calcium (6)

-Important for proper muscle function
-Aids in maintaining strong bones
-Releases hormones (ex: insulin)

These electrolytes also help maintain proper blood volume and prevent dehydration.
*(per one cup serving)

Aloe Vera Juice

Photo Credit: Erin Silversmith

This plant has numerous health benefits including positive effects on the immune system, relieving constipation, and reducing oxidative stress. It is also high in antioxidants making it extremely beneficial in fighting free radicals in the body. (7)
Aloe Vera is found in many marketplaces but since many of these premade drinks or other products have processed the aloe vera with damaging temperatures, the health benefits are extremely minimized. Not to mention, many of these products are laden with sugars and artificial preservatives.
The best solution is to either grow or buy the leaves whole and make the juice yourself. It's quite a simple process:
  1. Take one Aloe Vera leaf and peel it with a sharp knife. ( Start with the base, then the two sides then the front and back) Take caution as the gel is slippery. 
  2. Dip the aloe piece into cool water to remove the yellow-ish sap (This sap under the skin of the aloe contains extreme laxative effects) 
  3. Dice the aloe into smaller pieces then add to a blender
  4. Add water to achieve the desired consistency
  5. Blend well then enjoy! 
Tip: You can add other ingredients to the blender as well such as ginger or lemon.

Green Tea

Photo Credit: Milica

The antioxidant content of green tea makes it an ally in cancer prevention. It also supports this by reducing stress on a cellular level and supporting the immune system. It contains many trace elements that include calcium, manganese, and magnesium; these three, in particular, all supports bone health and can aid in the prevention of osteoporosis. These unfermented leaves may also suppress glucose elevation which can potentially help those who are suffering from diabetes. (8)

When purchasing, try to opt for higher quality and organic green tea. 

Watermelon Juice 

Photo Credit: Steve Evans

Related to the cucumber, this delicious fruit has an ample amount of vitamin C that supports the immune system to fight diseases. Watermelon also contains vitamin B6; this helps the body metabolize proteins. It reduces high blood pressure, supports eye health and contains relatively small amounts of electrolytes. It is 92% water thus making it a very good source of hydration.(9) (10) 

Watermelon does contain fructose so if juiced, it should be consumed in moderation. Blending the fresh fruit retains its dietary fiber reducing the elevation of blood sugar.  



It's best to avoid premade drinks as many contain added sugars and artificial preservatives that wreak havoc on the body. It's very important to read labels and avoid marketing tricks that may lead you into believing that you are purchasing a "health product". While there are some decent products out there that are not a huge risk to indulge in, it can never replace what you could gain from fresh fruits and vegetables.



Disclaimers

  • All product reviews are based on my experiences. Please be advised that everyone may not have the same experience. I am not affiliated with any product or marketing unless otherwise noted. Please check with manufacture disclaimers prior to use of any product.
  • All advice, information, and remedies should be taken into severe consideration. Please contact your health practitioner or holistic practitioner if you are struggling with a disease or currently taking any form of medication, pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • These statements-unless otherwise noted- have not been evaluated by the FDA 



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