When making healthy changes for ourselves, we must start with what we’re drinking! We know that drinking water is better for us than drinking soda, even diet soda. But, you may not know the WHY! Reducing your soda AND diet soda intake is important for so many reasons, here are just a few:
People who drink soda are less likely to get adequate Vitamin A, Calcium and Magnesium
Diet soda CAN contribute to weight gain. When you consume artificial sweeteners, your body craves more sugary calories and if you consume those calories, you will gain weight.
Regular soda contains an excessive amount of sugar, which can eventually lead to weight gain, diabetes, and insulin resistance.
Soda contains phosphoric acid, which decreases your body’s ability to absorb calcium. Lack of adequate calcium can lead to softening of your bones, osteoporosis, and cavities.
Soda and diet soda have NO nutritional benefits
Recent research indicates that even one diet soda per day can increase your risk of developing dementia and/or having a stroke.
So, change that soda habit into a water habit! Water is crucial for our bodies and we just aren’t drinking enough of it. The latest numbers show that Americans are consuming less soda and choosing more water these days, but we’re still falling short of what most of us need. Increasing our water intake can help improve our energy levels, prevent afternoon sleepiness and headaches, and can help us with weight control. There are really no specific rules about how much water is needed, everyone is different. If your urine is pale yellow, you’re probably well hydrated. A good general goal is 64 ounces of water per day. Once you're adequately hydrated, you’ll feel better and have a great foundation for the other healthy changes you want to make in 2018!
Tips for adding more water to your day:
Add fresh cut fruit or veggie slices to a pitcher of water or add some lemon, orange or lime Young Living Vitality oil to your glass of water.
Drink a glass of water every time you go to the bathroom.
Drink a glass of water before every meal (this will also help keep you full and possibly prevent overeating).
Use an app on your phone to help keep track of your water intake (this may help you stay motivated to reach your goal).
If you drink sugary drinks like tea or lemonade daily, add water and ice to dilute them. This will save calories and also get you used to drinking more water.
Fill a gallon jug with water and make sure it’s empty by the end of the day.
Eat more water-rich foods (fruits and vegetables).
Drink decaffeinated or caffeine-free, unsweetened coffee and tea (these can be counted as 100% water).
Cut out sugary sodas and replace them with water.
It's never too late to make healthy changes for yourself! If you have nutrition-related questions or need more information about how to add Young Living Essential Oils to your wellness routine, message me!