'Diet' drinks that actually aid weight loss

Long gone are the days when our drink choices were limited to soft drink, juice and water. We now have a growing range of 'healthy' beverage options that claim to increase energy; improve immune function and even help us lose weight. So is there any truth in these claims? And which drinks, if any should you add to your diet?

Herbal tea

The range of wellness teas is wide and growing and there are a range of benefits depending on which tea you choose. Green and matcha teas, although not technically herbal teas, are linked to fat loss thanks to their high antioxidant content and small associated increases in metabolic rate. Detox teas contain a range of different plants, including dandelion and hibiscus, generally known for their diuretic effects while peppermint is linked to abdominal comfort and rooibos for an immune boost.

You do need to be careful with the detox blends which contain dandelion or fennel as too much can cause kidney dysfunction. Generally speaking though, two to three cups of green or herbal tea each day is a positive addition to the diet.

Fresh juices

There is a big difference between a juice made with vegetables, and one made with multiple pieces of fruit. The average fruit juice will contain 20-30g of sugars, and while these sugars are natural it is still a concentrated source of calories. Vegetable juices, on the other hand, are much lower in calories ad sugar and are a nutritionally rich addition to the diet.

Kombucha

A type of fermented tea, kombucha is now so popular you can find it next to the soft drinks in all major supermarkets. A natural source of probiotics, the good bacteria that helps to keep the gut healthy, most varieties of kombucha are sweetened naturally with a little stevia and as such contain minimal sugars and calories. Another good addition to your diet, especially if you have tummy issues.

Vitamin water

There are a range of different types of vitamin waters and they are generally linked to improvements in energy, concentration and vitality but when you take a closer look at ingredient lists and nutritional panels most vitamin waters are simple mixes of sugar and basic vitamins like vitamin B or C which most of us already get plenty of in our diets. With 20-30g of sugars per bottles, vitamin waters are one type of drink best avoided.

Diet soft drink

The diet soft drink industry has changed considerably in recent years with new varieties offering naturally sweetened alternatives to artificial sweeteners as well as blends of sugar and plant-based sweeteners. While diet soft drinks are lower in calories and sugars than regular soft drink, they are still a highly acidic drink best enjoyed occasionally at best as they offer little other that is positive nutritionally.

Susie Burrell is a nutritionist. Follow her on Twitter @SusieBDiet