How to Choose a Health Drink

Mind is All

Do you like the idea of getting healthier just by choosing the right health drinks? Just because a beverage is labeled as a health drink doesn't mean it's the best drink for your situation. Use these guidelines to choose the best health drinks for you.

There are many varieties of health drinks on the market, each with different purposes. Are you replacing a meal? Are you drinking this to help you build muscle after a hard workout? Are you looking for a health drink that will help you hydrate because of excessive exercise or extreme weather? Or did you just want a drink? With every health drink, you'll want to check the label to be sure it's all natural and full of good stuff, but then you'll want to match these criteria with the following needs.

If you need a meal replacement, you'll need to consider calories first.

This is especially important if you are following a diet with restricted calories. Any good meal replacement health drink will be high in protein and somewhat low in sugar. It should also contain some fat, and if you're lucky, some fiber (although you can always add in some metamucil or eat a Benefiber tablet). Those are the three ingredients that satisfy your hunger and stick with you: protein, fat, and fiber.

If you've just finished a weight lifting routine, you'll need a recovery drink with lots of protein. Stock up on premade protein drinks or whip up your own in the blender with some protein powder and milk.

If you've just completed a triathlon or finished a half-day tennis camp in the blazing sun, your body is dying for water, sugar, and electrolytes.

If you're just looking for a thirst-quencher, look for a low-cal, all natural health drink. You don't want to drink too many calories.

Experiment with various health drinks until you find the ones that best meet your needs.