Healthy Beverages

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

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.

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 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.

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.

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.