We are talking about good habits for optimal health and learning to NOT drink sugar is certainly a major one. There are so many “drinks” on the market that are basically just sugar water. The sodas, fruit juices and pre-made iced teas, for instance, are so filled with various carbohydrates (sugar), that they not only have little to no health benefits, but they can actually aid in the destruction of our health. We should never drink our calories since they can be extra “hidden” ingredients that we do not take into consideration as we monitor what we are eating. The best thing to do is drink God made water. Quality of our water is important too and I will discuss this further when I get to the “environment” pillar. For now, my point is that we need to hydrate ourselves with as close to what God created as possible.
Water can be an acquired taste. I know that when I began making water my major form of fluid intake, it took me some time to get used to the “flavor.” Some people think that water has no flavor, but it certainly does. For this reason, many people shy away from water as their beverage because they just don’t like to drink it. If that’s you, please know you have options. Try flavoring your water with berries and other fruits or simply drink tea. You will get used to it then wonder how you lived without water before.
Teas are filled with antioxidants, antimicrobials, polyphenols, catechins and others nutrients that our bodies will love. If you have issues with caffeine, enjoy herbal teas which naturally do not contain caffeine. Also for you coffee lovers out there, these caffeinated pleasures have actually been shown to have benefits, but only in moderation and when they are not laced with tons of sugar.
If anyone is wondering why I include fruit juices as a “No-No,” apart from the fact that store bought juices have been adulterated with lots and lots of extra sugar, it is simply because fiber is one of the major beneficial parts of the fruit. So when we are just drinking the juice, sure we can get some vitamins etc, but we are missing the best ingredient. Fiber is so important for many reasons, we will talk more about that tomorrow. For now, please don’t just drink the fruit’s sugar, choose to eat the whole fruit instead.
Today’s tip: don’t drink sugar
<>< Peace, Diane
