With summer outings and outdoor activities in full swing, I selected a few beverages that go beyond healthy with better-made sodas, vitamin infused concoctions and non-alcoholic drinks. Following are my leading 5 picks to sip in the sunshine this season.
First up is SunSip. It’s a new soda with only 5 grams of sugar, compared to the 39 grams of sugar in the most popular brand names. This is truly something to raise a glass and celebrate. The Raspberry Lemonade also includes prebiotics (good for the gut), minerals and vitamins C, B6 and B12 plus Zinc. The flavor is the key. I did a taste test, and even the teenagers liked it at a backyard BBQ.
Read all about it: SunSip
If you desire a cocktail at the pool party but don’t want the alcohol, try the beverages from Free AF — the non-alcoholic cocktail. These small, canned mocktails have no artificial colors or sweeteners and are glutton free —very important for today’s imbibers. I am a fan of the Italian cocktail, Aperol Spritz — this company has created their own version called the Apero Spritz. Simply pour from the single serving can and add a slice of orange — the taste is comparable and reminded me of traveling the Amalfi Coast. They also offer Cucumber G & T. The original Gin & Tonic was created in India and quickly adopted by the British. This drink will remind you of its complete history without the hangover. Just garnish it with a slice of lime and only 2 or 3 ice cubes, otherwise the Brits might be offended.
Health-Ade Kombucha is a remarkably popular beverage, and the brand’s growth is on the uptick. I truly enjoy this beverage, most specifically their pomegranate flavor. The news this summer is their new flavor Orange Creamsicle. I can’t think of a better flavor for the season. It’s a limited edition, so I encourage you to stock up. This refreshing and bubbly probiotic tea is good for the digestive system and the flavor took me back to summers in Pennsylvania, riding my bicycle while eating a creamsicle. The hefty bottle scores extra points.
GOHydrate has been my go-to hydration elixir for about a year now because of its taste and convenience — it’s a powder in individual packets. The 30-count box makes it easy for me to carry to work or elsewhere and simply pour into my water bottle. This summer, I think it would be a great idea to keep a box of these next to your beverage cooler and let friends and guests choose their preferred flavor. My favorites are the Kiwi Strawberry and the Cherry Lemonade. The box also includes Fruit Punch, Grape and Lemon Citrus. There are 5 electrolytes and vitamin D plus no sugar. Order a box or 12 at the link below. You will thank me by the fall.
Want to build muscle this summer? If so, add plant-based Vega to your workout. This powder comes in a jumbo size container with about 20 servings. I prefer the chocolate with 30 grams of protein. It also contains tart cherry for muscle recovery. Keep up with your workout routine to be stronger and rock a hard body by winter. Check out their website for delicious recipes.
Photo Credits: P. K. Greenfield and Companies.
