attaching a high-quality filter to your tap water supply and drinking
this filtered tap water as your primary source of water. To give
yourselfplenty of easy access to home-filtered waters, you may
want to purchase an easy-to-carry water bottle and refill it whenever
you are home so that you can have water with you when you are on
the go. Look for glass or stainless steel ones. If you’re getting a hard
plastic (polycarbonate) bottle, be sure to purchase a "BPA-free" one.
(BPA stands for bisphenol A, a problematic toxin that has often been
added to polycarbonate plastics.)
100% fruit juices: Fruit juice can be healthy when it is 100% fruit
juice, with no added sweeteners. But, keep in mind, that juice can
pack a powerful punch in terms of calories and sugar, so it may not
be wise to consume a lot of juice, even 100% fruit juice, if you are
trying to lose weight or have blood sugar regulation concerns. To
take full advantage of the nutrients available in the fruit, press or
juice the fruit at home and consume it immediately. If you want to
buy fruit juice at a grocery store, keep in mind that 100% fruit juice
is harder to find than you might think as many fruit beverages sold
in supermarkets contain only a small percentage (usually less than
10%) of actual fruit juice. For a special occasion, instead of serving
soda, make a refreshing and healthy punch by combining sparkling
water with 100% cranberry juice, ice, and orange slices in a large
bowl. (Remember though that while 100% fruit juice may be a
healthful beverage, it shouldn’t be thought of as a substitute for
whole fresh fruit.)
Iced herbal tea: Instead of regular iced tea, treat yourself to a cool
drink of herbal iced tea. Many herbs are rich in powerful antioxidants,
which support the immune system and overall health. Brew the tea
stronger than you would if you were planning to serve the tea hot
and then add ice and a sprig of mint or a slice of lemon. Peppermint
tea is wonderful when served cold. Or, try a combination of various
herbs: chamomile, hibiscus flower, lemon grass, orange peel, rose
hips, and strawberry leaf.
Practical Tips for Continued Healthy Weight Loss