Healthy Drinks

The general rule for healthy drinks is the same as for healthy food: keep it simple. Beverages that don't require a lot of processing, packaging and shipping are usually the best for your body, as well as the environment. Consider these examples: 

Water
Clean, safe drinking water is a basic human need. In the US and many other countries, we are blessed to have it right in our homes, at the tap.  Yet we spend lots of money on single use plastic bottles, creating unnecessary health risks and serious environmental impacts. Learn how to kick the bottled water habit and make the most of your tap water.

Sodas
Commercial sodas, made from chemical flavorings and high-fructose corn syrups, provide no real nutrition but contribute to the rising incidence of diabetes and obesity. Fortunately, it is possible to have the fizz and flavor we've grown to love, without the packaging waste, expense or health side effects. Learn to make your own soda at home.

Juices
Fruits and vegetables provide valuable vitamins, minerals, and phyto-nutrients; and juice can be a quick, tasty way to consume them. Since juicing leaves the fiber behind and concentrates the sugars in each serving, it is important to drink juice in moderation. Making a healthy 'mixed drink' with homemade soda (seltzer) is one refreshing option.

Milk
Cow's milk is a healthy choice for people who need lots of calcium (especially children and younger women) and are not lactose-intolerant.
It does contain cholesterol and saturated fat, however; so finding other calcium-rich foods (like soy and broccoli) to enjoy will help provide a balance.
Vegan alternatives for drinking and cooking include soy milk, rice milk, and almond milk. Whether from cows or plants, finding an organic variety will help both your health and the environment. 

Yogurt drinks
Many highly-sweetened, plastic-bottled snack drinks made with yogurt are available in groceries today. They bear only a small resemblance to the original, fresh and healthy drinks that are remarkably easy to make.
Start by making your own low-fat yogurt.

Fruit smoothies
The simplest combinations of fresh fruit and low-fat, homemade yogurt yield delicious treats that make a great breakfast or healthy snack.

Tea
People in every part of the world drink tea. If you can heat water and add a plant leaf for flavoring, you can make a tasty hot or cold refreshment. Tea not only plays an important role in culture, but can be medicinal as well. Commercial tea farming comes with environmental and labor issues; so look for the fair trade label.