When you are thirsty, what is your first go to drink?  What do you drink in the morning to get your day going?  Do you choose water or something with empty calories?   Since it is easy to consume calories through liquids, watch what you drink so you don’t drink your calories.

Example

I was talking with a gal recently and she was telling me about her new coffee habit.  She wanted to drink coffee so she could be a part of the office coffee gang.  However, she learned to drink it only if it was mixed with some “delicious and flavorful” coffee creamers. She then shared that she has gained some weight since she started her new habit. 

Coffee creamers are typically made from water, sugar, vegetable oil and other additives.  Creamers are usually heavily processes and loaded with added sugar. 

Why You Should Avoid Drinking Calories?

Consuming calories in liquid form can have several negative health consequences.  Some of these beverages include sugary drinks, soda, coffee creamers, alcohol, juices, smoothies, etc. Here are some reasons to avoid drinking your calories:

• Increased calorie intake that can lead to weight gain
• Easier to consume in large quantities without realizing it
• Does not provide a sense of fullness like solid foods
• Lacks nutrients and has little to no fiber, protein, vitamins, and can be high in fat
• Can disrupt the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut

What Are Alternatives to Drinking Calories?

• Water – the best choice for hydration
• Unsweetened tea – flavor without added calories
• Black Coffee – contains antioxidants
• Homemade Smoothies – they can be high in sugar, but you can control the ingredients and use fruits and vegetables

Steer clear of calorie-laden beverages. Calories you drink are less satiating than the calories you chew.  Watch what you drink so you don’t drink your calories.