Nutrition Challenge Week 7: Don’t Drink the Kool-Aid
All Calories Count
Though we don’t often think about them, calories from drinks can add up quickly. If you start your day with a 12-ounce skim latte from Starbucks (100 calories), a coke with lunch (150 calories), and a glass of wine at dinner (120 calories) will lead to 370 calories at the end of day. Seven days a week of this and you’ve got yourself over a half a pound of weight gain just there.
But obviously we have to drink. Staying hydrated is vital for good health. And though water is the preferred drink, it doesn’t always hit the spot. So what are some ways you can change things up a bit without sacrificing too many of your daily calories? Here are some suggestions:
- Flavored water: Whether you do it naturally (adding fruit to your water) or buy the flavored bottled water, this is a great way to add a twist to your daily H2O intake.
- Tea: Whether it is iced or hot tea, there is a wide variety of tea flavors that, with just a scoop of Stevia, can be a great way to add some taste to your liquid.
- Diet cola: While not the preferred method, 1-2 diet colas a day won’t do harm to your waistline or health. So long as you are also getting your water intake each day, this is a great calorie-free way to add flavor.
Week 7 Recipe
Superfood Smoothies: Delicious and deliciously healthy smoothies!
Weekly Challenge:
Don’t Drink the Kool-Aid: Liquid Calorie Challenge
Why It’s Important: When trying to lose weight, it’s easiest to find ways to lower your daily caloric intake by taking out those that come from nonessentials. One such nonessential are liquid calories.
Your Challenge: What do you drink that contains calories? If it is something with high levels of sugar, calories, and/or fat, is there some way you can replace it? This week, challenge yourself to find a healthier alternative to all liquid calories you consume on a regular basis.
