Starting my weight loss journey, I’ve made staying hydrated a key part of my day. I’ve found many low-calorie drinks that help with my health and fitness goals. These drinks, like herbal teas and probiotic-rich options, are now my favorites.
By trying different low-calorie drinks, I’ve kept things interesting and stayed consistent. This has helped me stay energized all day.
Key Takeaways
- Staying hydrated is key for managing weight and staying healthy.
- Drinks like infused waters, herbal teas, and probiotic drinks help with weight loss.
- Trying different drinks keeps things interesting and helps you stay hydrated.
- Drinks with lots of sugar, like regular sodas, can lead to weight gain and health problems1.
- Choosing drinks with fewer calories, like Poppi Soda, can cut hundreds of calories a day2.
Hydrating Alternatives to Water
Staying hydrated is key for weight loss. But, plain water can get boring. Luckily, there are tasty and nutritious alternatives to help you stay hydrated and support your weight loss journey3.
Infused Water: A Flavorful and Nutrient-Rich Option
Adding fresh fruits, herbs, or vegetables to your water is a great way to make it tasty without adding calories. Try using cucumber, lemon, ginger, and strawberry for a refreshing taste and extra nutrients3. This easy trick makes drinking water fun and helps you reach your weight loss lemon water or weight loss ideas for breakfast goals.
Unsweetened Coconut Water: A Natural Electrolyte Replenisher
Unsweetened coconut water is a low-calorie choice that helps refill electrolytes, perfect for after working out. It’s full of potassium, sodium, and magnesium, which are great for hydration without the sugar in sports drinks3.
| Beverage | Nutrition Benefits |
|---|---|
| Infused Water | Provides a burst of flavor and beneficial nutrients from fruits, herbs, and vegetables. |
| Unsweetened Coconut Water | Rich in electrolytes like potassium, sodium, and magnesium, making it a great post-workout hydration option. |
These hydrating drinks can spice up your daily routine and support your health and weight loss goals3. Remember, staying hydrated is key for your body’s functions, energy, and managing weight.
“Proper hydration is crucial for weight loss, as it can help boost metabolism, curb appetite, and flush out toxins from the body.” – Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Mascha Davis, M.P.H., R.D.N3.
Low-Sugar Fizzy Drinks
For those who love fizzy drinks, there are now many low-sugar and gut-friendly soda alternatives. Soda is the second most popular drink in the United States, but too much sugar can lead to obesity and health problems4. Luckily, brands like Poppi and Humm offer sodas that are lower in calories and sugar. They also have prebiotic fibers and probiotics to help your gut health4.
Prebiotic and Probiotic Sodas: A Gut-Friendly Alternative
These sodas give you the fizz you want without the sugar and calories that can stop your weight loss4. In fact, sales of low-sugar fizzy drinks have gone up by 20% in the last year5. This is because 60% of people5now prefer drinks with fewer calories to help with their diets5.
| Brand | Calories | Sugar | Sweetener |
|---|---|---|---|
| Olipop | 35 | 2g | Prebiotic fibers, stevia |
| Zevia | 0 | 0g | Stevia leaf extract |
| Nixie Zero Sugar Soda | 0 | 0g | Organic stevia leaf extract |
| Virgil’s Zero Sugar Vanilla Cream Soda | 0 | 0g | Erythritol |
| Health-Ade Sodas | 35 | 5g | Apple juice, cane sugar, monk fruit juice concentrate |
| Humm Lemon Lime Probiotic Soda | 0 | 0g | Allulose |
These low-sugar fizzy drinks not only satisfy your craving for fizz but also offer health benefits4. With 35% of fizzy drink brands5now offering low-sugar options, it’s clear people want healthier choices5.
Switching to these gut-friendly, low-sugar drinks can help you reach your weight loss goals and reduce your risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease4. Sales of sugary fizzy drinks have dropped by 15%5 as more people choose low-sugar alternatives, showing a shift in what consumers want5.
Looking for a refreshing, low-calorie fizzy drink or something that’s good for your gut? These low-sugar sodas are a tasty and healthy choice4. People aged 25-35 are 40% more likely5to pick low-sugar fizzy drinks, showing a growing trend towards better beverage choices5.
“Swapping out sugary sodas for healthier options can support weight loss and lower the risk of chronic diseases.” –4
Herbal Teas for Weight Loss
Incorporating herbal teas into your daily routine can help with weight loss. These teas are calorie-free and offer many health benefits. They can soothe digestive issues and boost metabolism, helping you on your weight loss path.
Green tea is a top choice for weight loss6. A review of 11 studies found it helps reduce body weight, BMI, and belly fat in people with type 2 diabetes6. Puerh tea also aids in weight loss, with users losing about 2.2 pounds more than the control group after 3 months6. Oolong tea is another option, improving metabolism and fat burning6.
Other teas are also great for weight loss. Fennel tea boosts metabolism and helps control cravings7. Celery water is a low-calorie drink that may help with weight loss7. Black tea supports weight loss by aiding in fat oxidation and boosting metabolism7.
Adding different herbal teas to your daily routine can be tasty and calorie-free. Whether you like the calming chamomile, the metabolism boost from ginger, or the antioxidants in hibiscus, there’s a tea for you.
“Herbal teas can be a delicious and healthy addition to any weight loss plan, offering a range of benefits beyond just hydration.”
best low-calorie beverages for Post-Workout Hydration
After a tough workout, it’s key to refill your electrolytes for recovery and help your weight loss smoothie ideas. Traditional sports drinks can be too sugary, but now, there are better options that are low in calories or have no calories at all. Studies show that staying hydrated after a workout helps remove toxins and stops muscle cramps8.
Sports Drinks: Electrolyte Replenishment on the Go
Sports drinks like Gatorade Zero and Powerade are great for quick hydration and refueling. They have carbs, electrolytes, and sometimes vitamins and minerals to help muscles recover and refill what’s lost during exercise9. For those cutting down on sugar, Gatorade Zero is a good choice with almost no carbs per serving9.
Electrolyte Packets: Portable Hydration Solution
Weight loss smoothie ideas electrolyte packets, such as those from Pedialyte, are another good choice. These packets have the right mix of electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium to refill what’s lost through sweat8. They usually have fewer calories and carbs than sports drinks, making them better for those watching their diet9.
| Beverage | Price per Serving | Calories per Serving | Carbs per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nooma Organic Electrolyte Sports Drink | $2.66 | 30 | 7g |
| Powerade | $0.72 | 80 | 19g |
| Gatorade Zero | $1.07 | 0 | |
| Tailwind Caffeinated Endurance Fuel | N/A | 100 | 25g |
Good nutrition, focusing on protein and carbs, is key for rebuilding muscles and fueling your body after exercise10. Adding these low-calorie, electrolyte-rich drinks to your weight loss smoothie ideas can help you reach your weight loss goals and recover better from hard workouts8.
“Staying hydrated after a workout is crucial for muscle recovery and overall health. These low-calorie, electrolyte-rich options make it easy to replenish what’s lost without consuming excessive sugar or calories.” – Fitness Enthusiast
Kefir: A Probiotic-Rich Weight Loss Ally
If you’re trying to lose weight, think about adding kefir to your daily diet. This fermented dairy drink is full of probiotics that can help with weight control11. Research shows that drinking kefir regularly can help overweight and obese people lose weight and reduce their waist size11. It can also help keep blood sugar levels stable, which can prevent cravings for more food11.
While store-bought kefir might not be as effective as homemade versions11, making your own kefir with kefir grains is a great choice11. This homemade version is fermented for 12 to 24 hours11. It’s a budget-friendly and healthy option that can boost your metabolism and help you reach your wellness goals11.
Kefir is a powerful probiotic drink that may aid in weight loss and overall gut health.
The good bacteria in kefir can help with insulin resistance, inflammation, and fat storage, all of which affect weight12. Research has found certain bacteria linked to being slender12. The gut and brain are connected, with gut bacteria affecting hunger hormones12. Adding kefir to your daily routine can support your gut, boost your metabolism, and help you achieve your health goals11.
“Kefir has beneficial properties that include bioactive peptides with antihypertensive, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, opioid, and anti-oxidative functions.”13
Kefir isn’t just good for weight loss; it can also help with other metabolic health issues13. Studies have found that kefir can lower the risk of heart disease, reduce bad cholesterol, and improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels in people with metabolic syndrome13. These benefits make kefir an important part of a healthy lifestyle.
Vegetable Juice: A Nutrient-Dense Option
While whole vegetables are best, vegetable juices are a good choice for weight loss ideas for breakfast. They are packed with nutrients and can help with weight loss. Cold-pressed vegetable juices are great because they are low in calories but full of important nutrients14.
Grapefruit Juice: A Tangy and Nutritious Choice
Grapefruit juice is a tasty and healthy choice for weight loss ideas for breakfast. It’s full of vitamin C and antioxidants. Plus, it tastes great and can replace sugary drinks15.
| Juice Type | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cranberry Juice | 116 | 1 g | 31 g | 0.25 g | 31 g |
| Tomato Juice | 41 | 2 g | 9 g | – | 6 g |
| Beet Juice | 70 | 1 g | 18 g | – | 13 g |
| Apple Juice | 114 | <1 g | 28 g | – | 24 g |
| Prune Juice | 182 | 1.5 g | 45 g | – | 42 g |
| Pomegranate Juice | 134 | <1 g | 33 g | – | 32 g |
| Acai Berry Juice | 91 | 1 g | 13 g | – | 9 g |
| Orange Juice | 112 | 2 g | 26 g | – | 21 g |
This table shows the nutritional values of different juices. It includes calories, protein, carbs, fiber, and sugar per 1 cup (240 ml) serving15.
“Juicing removes fiber, which is key for gut health and overall well-being. Consider making smoothies instead, which keep the fiber from whole fruits and vegetables.”
Vegetable juices are a great choice for their nutrients but lack fiber. Making smoothies is a better option. They keep the fiber and can be a filling weight loss ideas for breakfast. Add protein, healthy fats, and other nutrients to make them even better14.
Coffee and Tea for a Metabolism Boost
I’ve found two drinks that help boost my metabolism naturally: coffee and green tea. These drinks have benefits that help with weight loss in unexpected ways.
Black Coffee: A Calorie-Free Energy Booster
Drinking a cup of black coffee can really help with weight loss. Studies show that a bit of caffeine can cut down calorie intake16. Also, coffee’s caffeine can make your metabolism faster, helping burn fat all day16.
Green Tea: Antioxidants for Weight Management
Green tea is great for weight loss too. It’s full of antioxidants and caffeine, which help boost metabolism and burn fat. Research found that drinking green tea for 12 weeks led to more weight loss than not drinking it17. Matcha, a special green tea, also helps burn more fat when exercising17.
Adding weight loss smoothie ideas and weight loss easy meals like black coffee and green tea to my day can really help. Their caffeine and antioxidants support my health and wellness goals. They’re a key part of my healthy lifestyle.
Protein Shakes: Filling and Nutritious
Adding protein shakes to your diet can change the game for weight loss. These drinks are packed with nutrients and can boost your metabolism18.
Choose protein shakes with at least 20 grams of protein per serving. This helps you stay full, cutting down on snacking or eating too much1819.
For the best results, pick shakes with clean ingredients like whey, soy, egg, or plant-based proteins. Stay away from added sugars and choose natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit instead19.
The protein, calorie count, and nutrients in your shake matter a lot for weight loss. Aim for shakes with 15 grams of protein, 250 calories or less, and few sugars19.
Great choices include Orgain Organic Protein Grass-Fed Protein Shake with 26 grams of protein and 160 calories, Transparent Labs Casein Protein Powder with 25 grams of protein and 120 calories, and Huel Black Edition meal replacement shake with 40 grams of protein and 400 calories18.
Protein shakes are a great addition to your weight loss plan. They balance protein, calories, and nutrients, making you feel full and energized while helping you reach your fitness goals181920.
“Protein shakes have become a staple in my weight loss routine. They’re convenient, nutritious, and keep me feeling satisfied throughout the day.”
Apple Cider Vinegar: A Natural Appetite Suppressant
If you’re trying to lose weight, adding apple cider vinegar to your daily routine could change the game. This common item in your pantry might help with weight management. Studies suggest that taking 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 mL) of apple cider vinegar daily can help control hunger and make you feel full. This could lead to eating fewer calories and weight loss21.
The key ingredient in apple cider vinegar is acetic acid. It slows down how fast food leaves the stomach, making you feel full for longer21. A 2018 study with 39 people on calorie-restricted diets showed that those who took apple cider vinegar lost more weight and body fat than those who didn’t21.
| Potential Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar | Potential Risks and Downsides |
|---|---|
But, the research on apple cider vinegar’s long-term effects on weight loss is mixed23. Some studies show good results, but others don’t find much weight loss benefit23. Always talk to your doctor before adding apple cider vinegar or any supplement to your weight loss plan, especially if you have health issues23.
If you want to try apple cider vinegar, start with a small dose like 1 teaspoon (5 mL). Gradually increase to 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 mL) per day, spread out over several doses22. This way, you can see how your body reacts and avoid side effects. Remember, weight loss is a journey. Eating well and exercising regularly are still the best ways to stay healthy23.
“There is no magic bullet for weight loss, and approaches that claim significant weight loss without decreasing calories or increasing physical activity should be viewed with skepticism.”
Sparkling Water: A Zero-Calorie Fizzy Treat
I’m always searching for healthy drinks that are fizzy and refreshing without extra calories. Sparkling water is perfect for this. It’s zero calories but still gives that bubbly feel. Sparkling water comes in many sizes, from small cans to big bottles. Each size has its own calorie and sugar content, but they’re usually very low or zero24.
What’s great about sparkling water is the wide range of flavors. You can find everything from classic lemon and grapefruit to unique ones like pineapple and lavender cucumber24. These flavors often come from real fruit juices or natural extracts, not artificial stuff. So, I can enjoy a fizzy drink that’s also good for my weight loss goals.
Sparkling water might also help with weight loss. The bubbles can make me feel full, which might mean I eat less25. Some studies even say it can improve digestion and help with constipation25. As I keep trying new weight loss smoothie ideas, sparkling water is a key part of my hydration plan.
FAQ
What are some low-calorie beverage options to support my weight loss journey?
There are many tasty and hydrating drinks that are low in calories. These include infused waters, unsweetened coconut water, and low-sugar sodas. You can also try herbal teas, sports drinks, kefir, vegetable juices, coffee, and protein shakes.
How can infusing water with fruits, herbs, and vegetables help with weight loss?
Adding things like cucumber, lemon, ginger, and strawberry to water makes it tasty without adding many calories. This makes it a great choice for staying hydrated while losing weight.
What are the benefits of drinking unsweetened coconut water?
Unsweetened coconut water is a low-calorie drink that helps replace electrolytes. It’s a good choice after working out to support your weight loss.
How can low-sugar and probiotic-rich sodas be a healthier alternative for weight loss?
Drinks like Poppi and Humm have fewer calories and sugar than regular sodas. They also have prebiotic fibers and probiotics. These can help your gut health and aid in weight loss.
What are the potential weight loss benefits of drinking herbal teas?
Herbal teas like chamomile, hibiscus, and peppermint don’t have calories. They offer health benefits, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects. These may help with weight loss.
How can sports drinks and electrolyte packets help with post-workout hydration and weight loss?
Sports drinks and packets, such as Pedialyte, help you rehydrate and refuel after a workout. They replace electrolytes lost through sweat and support your weight loss.
What are the weight loss benefits of incorporating kefir into my diet?
Kefir is a fermented dairy drink full of probiotics. It may help with weight loss by improving insulin resistance, reducing inflammation, and managing fat storage.
How can drinking vegetable juice, especially grapefruit juice, support my weight loss goals?
Vegetable juice, especially low-sodium options, can aid in weight loss. Grapefruit juice is a tasty choice that may help with weight management.
What are the weight loss benefits of drinking coffee and tea?
Coffee and green tea can boost your metabolism, helping with weight loss. Coffee is calorie-free and can increase energy and reduce hunger. Green tea is full of antioxidants that may help burn fat.
How can protein shakes help with my weight loss goals?
Protein shakes with whey, soy, egg, or plant proteins can help with weight loss. They make you feel full, preventing overeating and supporting calorie burning.
What are the potential weight loss benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar?
Drinking a diluted apple cider vinegar shot daily may help with weight loss. It slows down stomach emptying, keeping you feeling full longer. But, talk to your doctor before trying it, especially if you have health conditions.
How can sparkling water be a helpful zero-calorie option for weight loss?
Sparkling water, with or without natural flavors, is a zero-calorie choice that’s fizzy and satisfying. It can help you feel full, aiding in your weight loss efforts.
Source Links
- Low-Calorie Summer Sippers – https://www.webmd.com/diet/features/low-calorie-summer-sippers
- 9 Low-Calorie Beverage Options When You’re Bored of Water – https://www.loseit.com/articles/low-calorie-beverage-options-when-youre-bored-of-water/
- A Recent Study Says Coffee May Help Fight Inflammation – https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet-nutrition/g40457058/healthiest-drinks/
- 26 Healthy, Low-Sugar Soda Alternatives – https://www.eatthis.com/healthy-soda-alternatives/
- Zero Calorie Drinks and Sodas | Beverage Universe – https://beverageuniverse.com/sodas/zero-calorie-zero-carb-sodas.html
- The 6 Best Teas to Lose Weight and Belly Fat – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/weight-loss-tea
- 7 herbal drinks that are best for weight loss | The Times of India – https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/food-news/7-herbal-drinks-that-are-best-for-weight-loss/photostory/104109634.cms
- Find Out Which Recovery Drinks Help You Get Stronger And Perform Better – https://www.verywellfit.com/best-post-workout-drinks-6822600
- The 8 Best Sports Drinks Picked By a Dietitian (2024) | Garage Gym Reviews – https://www.garagegymreviews.com/best-sports-drinks
- Best Workout Recovery Drinks | Wahl USA – https://wahlusa.com/how-to/massagers/fitness-recovery/best-workout-recovery-drinks
- Kefir Weight Loss – https://www.thebespokenutritioncoach.co.uk/kefir-weight-loss-the-delicious-way-to-shed-excess-weight-and-feel-great/
- 5 naturally probiotic foods that could aid weight loss – https://www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/health/conditions/a701156/foods-with-probiotics/
- Kefir improves blood parameters and reduces cardiovascular risks in patients with metabolic syndrome – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S2213434421000177
- Low-Calorie Drinks That Pack a Nutritional Punch | 8fit – https://8fit.com/nutrition/low-calorie-drinks-nutritious/
- The 9 Healthiest Types of Juice – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthiest-juice
- Can Coffee Increase Your Metabolism and Help You Burn Fat? – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coffee-increase-metabolism
- The 8 Best Weight Loss Drinks – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/weight-loss-drinks
- Best Protein Shakes for Weight Loss: Expert Tips (2024) | Garage Gym Reviews – https://www.garagegymreviews.com/best-protein-shakes-for-weight-loss
- We Tasted 50+ Protein Shakes & Powders So You Don’t Have To—Here Are 8 We Actually Recommend – https://www.eatingwell.com/article/7964007/best-protein-shakes-protein-powders/
- We Tried 19 Protein Shakes to Find Ones That Actually Taste Good (And Are RD-Approved!) – https://www.health.com/nutrition/best-protein-shakes
- Apple Cider Vinegar and Weight Loss: Learn the Facts – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/apple-cider-vinegar-weight-loss
- 6 Proven Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-proven-health-benefits-of-apple-cider-vinegar
- Can apple cider vinegar help you burn fat? – https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/expert-answers/apple-cider-vinegar-for-weight-loss/faq-20058394
- Elevate Your Hydration Game with These Dietitian-Approved Best Sparkling Waters – https://www.verywellfit.com/best-sparkling-water-5105296
- Is Carbonated (Sparkling) Water Good or Bad? – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/carbonated-water-good-or-bad
This post may contain affiliate links which means I may receive a commission for purchases made through links. I will only recommend products that I have personally used! Learn more on my Private Policy page.
