People are busier than ever and life is moving so quickly it’s driving Americans to drink! We spend billions every year on sports drinks, coffee, and sodas, attempting to quench our thirst for more energy. Health concerns grow as we guzzle an average of 14 billion gallons of carbonated water, sugar, and caffeine every year.
The addictive qualities and super-sized servings keep us coming back for more. Sugary drinks account for the largest portion of calories consumed by Americans. It has become such an issue that our government has started an intervention. These refreshments have been linked to diabetes, cancer, obesity, insomnia, tooth decay, and anxiety. If that’s not enough to make you think twice before dousing in liquid motivation, health regulators are currently investigating several deaths involving energy drinks.
If you’re ready to pull the plug on your elixir, here are three obstacles you will encounter along with helpful tips to aid you on the road to recovery:
Carbonation. It’s debatable whether carbonation itself is harmful. Many feel bubbly beverages are ok as long as they’re not loaded with sugar and other harmful ingredients. Try healthy alternatives like mineral water. Sweeten it up with nature’s nectar – add fruit! The biggest problem with carbonated beverages is that people are drinking them instead of water, milk or juice – all of which are beneficial to your health.
Sugar. Many drinks are marketed as healthy and may tell you they contain vitamins and antioxidants, which are good, but the amount of sugar and other malignant ingredients will cancel out any benefit. Always read labels! Question the ingredients and serving sizes and turn to healthier options. Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits, and drink milk or orange juice. These are high in vitamins, minerals, and natural carbs that your body needs to keep going.
Exercising will increase energy and release feel good chemicals in the body. Keep it simple. Take the dog for a walk, jump rope, toss a ball with your kids – there are plenty of ways to keep active that don’t have to feel like a work out.
Caffeine. Masking fatigue is part of what makes caffeine so addictive. It can stay in your system for up to 12 hours, affecting your ability to rest well. The only way to feel better is with more caffeine.
Try figuring out why you’re so tired. Many are chronically dehydrated and don’t know it. Drinking 8 glasses of water a day will increase your energy level and keep you alert. Add citrus for flavor. Try switching to tea – less caffeine and it ranks higher in antioxidants than some fruits and vegetables!
Sleep is the best way to fight fatigue. Getting 8 hours and still tired? See your doctor. Simple blood tests will reveal if you are deficient in vitamins and minerals such as iron, which is very common in women. Make sure to get enough protein in your diet and snack every couple hours to keep blood sugar levels stable. Bananas and peanut butter mid-day will provide a nice pick-me-up.
Caffeine is often added to beverages and therefore must be listed as an ingredient, but there is no requirement to list caffeine levels. Legislators are becoming more involved in drink regulations because of misleading marketing and health issues. The best energy comes from the age old advice of being well rested, staying active, eating right, and drinking plenty of water.
Jennifer Vargo, RD, is a Registered Dietitian with Lee Health Solutions specializing in weight management for Lee Memorial Health System. She can be contacted by calling 239-424-3120.