The beverages we choose to drink each day can have a significant impact on our health. While staying properly hydrated is important, not all drinks are created equal. Many popular drinks are loaded with added sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients that can negatively affect your health.

This article explores some of the unhealthiest drink options and why you should avoid them.

SODAS

Sugary sodas like Coke, Sprite, and Fanta should be limited or avoided altogether. A 12 oz can of soda contains around 40 grams of sugar, mostly in the form of high fructose corn syrup. Excess sugar consumption is linked to obesity, diabetes, heart disease, gout and even premature death. The phosphoric acid in soda can also damage tooth enamel and lead to cavities.

SWEETENED FRUIT JUICES

Fruit juice seems like a healthy option, but store-bought varieties are usually packed with added sugar and lack the fiber of whole fruits. For example, cranberry juice cocktails can contain over 30 grams of sugar per cup. Stick to 100% fruit juices and consume in moderation.

SWEET COFFEE DRINKS

Popular coffeehouse beverages like frappes, mochas and frozen blended drinks are often loaded with sugar from flavored syrups, whipped cream and other toppings. A large Caramel Ribbon Crunch Frappuccino from Starbucks contains 60 grams of sugar - more than most candy bars! Stick to plain brewed coffee or unsweetened varieties.

SWEETENED TEA

Many bottled and freshly brewed teas contain lots of added sugar, especially sweet tea, bubble tea and chai lattes. Excess sugar intake from these drinks boosts your risk for obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Opt for unsweetened teas, or add a small amount of honey or stevia if you need a touch of sweetness.

ALCOHOL

Cocktails, beer and wine deliver empty calories and alcohol that can damage your liver, brain and other organs when consumed regularly. Alcohol is also dehydrating. Moderation is key if you choose to drink. Make sure to have water between each alcoholic beverage.

FLAVORED MILK DRINKS

Chocolate milk provides a hefty dose of added sugar, as do coffee drinks made with sugary creamers and sweetened condensed milk. These drive up calorie intake and negatively impact blood sugar control. Choose plain milk, and add cocoa powder and low-calorie sweeteners if desired.

ENERGY DRINKS

Energy drinks like Red Bull and Monster provide a caffeine and sugar jolt from ingredients like guarana, taurine and ginseng. But this combo can lead to jitters, insomnia, anxiety, high blood pressure and even cardiac events when consumed in excess. Avoid energy shots and drinks and get your caffeine boost from coffee or tea instead.

BOTTLED SMOOTHIES

Pre-made smoothies seem like a convenient on-the-go snack, but many brands are high in calories from added sugars. Some contain even more sugar than a can of soda! Check labels and choose low sugar, vegetable-based varieties. Better yet, make your own smoothies at home.

SPORTS & VITAMIN DRINKS

Sports beverages and vitamin waters often have unnecessary added sugars that outweigh any benefits from electrolytes or added nutrients. Unless you are an elite athlete, water is best for rehydrating during and after exercise. Real foods deliver vitamins and minerals in healthier forms than fortified drinks.

DIET SODA

Sugar-free sodas might seem like a better option than regular, but research links them to obesity, diabetes, heart disease and other chronic illnesses. Artificial sweeteners commonly used in diet drinks can harm gut health and trigger glucose intolerance as well. Skip soda altogether, diet or regular. 

FLAVORED & SWEETENED WATERS 

It's easy to assume flavored waters are healthy, but check the sugar content first. Many brands add unnecessary sugars, artificial sweeteners, and natural sweeteners that still spike blood sugar like agave. Opt for unsweetened mineral waters and add your own fresh citrus, cucumbers or fruit slices.

The bottom line is to avoid drinks with added sugars, unhealthy fats, artificial and natural sweeteners, and excess sodium. Stay hydrated with plain water, unsweetened coffee and tea, low-sugar vegetable juices and milk. Moderation is key for alcohol and 100% fruit juices. Read labels and know what’s in your beverages to make the healthiest choices.