You are here:About>Health>Alternative Medicine> Healthy Recipes> Improving Your Diet - Healthy Beverages
About.comAlternative Medicine
Newsletters & RSSEmail to a friendSubmit to Digg

Healthy Beverages

From Cathy Wong,
Your Guide to Alternative Medicine.
FREE Newsletter. Sign Up Now!
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

People following alternative diets often try to increase their intake of water and other beverages. Here are some suggestions:

Water

Some people find it easier to drink if it's room room temperature or slightly warm. In traditional Chinese medicine, drinking excessive amounts of cold water could worsen digestive problems. If you drink tap water, you may want to purchase a home water filter. Squeeze lemon, lime or orange wedges into water for flavor.

Herbal Teas

Caffeine-free herbal teas are other good options. Peppermint, chamomile and caraway teas in particular are thought to improve digestion and reduce bloating.

Vegetable Juice

Vegetable juice is a great way to boost your antioxidant intake. Avoid canned juices and vegetable cocktails that contain salt. Celery, wheatgrass, cucumber, fennel, parsley and other non-starchy vegetables are excellent choices. If you enjoy the taste of vegetable juice, you may wish to purchase your own juicer.

Smoothies

A smoothie made of a combination or fresh or frozen berries, a scoop of protein powder, greens powder, soy or rice milk and flax oil is a great way to start the day. If you are used to coffee or something sweet in the morning, you may find that a power smoothie gives you more sustained energy.

Fruit Juices

In general, it's better to eat fruit than drink it. Try diluting fruit juice with water -- one part unsweetened fruit juice to one to three parts water. You can use sparkling water to dilute as long as it is low in sodium.

Updated: February 1, 2008
 All Topics | Email Article | | |
Advertising Info | News & Events | Work at About | SiteMap | Reprints | HelpOur Story | Be a Guide
More from About, Inc.: Calorie Count Plus | UCompareHealthCare
User Agreement | Ethics Policy | Patent Info. | Corrections | Privacy Policy
©2008 About, Inc., A part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.