1. Kombucha

If I had to pick one beverage out of all refreshing healthy drinks to sip on for the rest of my life, it would be kombucha. Kombucha is a naturally fermented drink that gives a healthy boost of probiotics, strengthens the immune system, serves as a natural detoxifier, increases metabolism, gives an energy boost and provides many vitamins and enzymes. It’s a delicious and healthy drink that is low in calories and efficient at quenching thirst.

2. Fruit Smoothie

There is nothing more refreshing than a mix of fresh fruits blended with a few ice cubes! Plus you can customize it any way you want by incorporating almond milk to make it creamier, or including chia seeds for a more filling effect. Any way you make it, it is still a lot more nutritious than a can of Arizona tea.

3. Kefir

Kefir is a cultured milk product with a tart, sour and even sweet taste, depending on the flavor you get. It is filled with healthy probiotics, calcium, vitamins and protein that are beneficial for digestion. Plus it is great to use for smoothies or even drink on its own! Just give it a try yourself.

4. Iced Tea

Iced tea has many benefits, but many of those benefits can be stripped away if there is an excess of sugar, which is why it is never recommended to purchase sweetened tea from places like Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks. Instead try to brew your own iced tea and flavor it with lemons or any other fruits.

5. Vegetable Juice

Juicing has become quite a thing recently and we are all for it! Many people don’t consume enough vegetables and juicing helps us absorb all of the nutrients from vegetables without actually having to go through the process of cooking them. So next time you feel thirsty, juice a few vegetables so you get to consume an optimal amount of vegetables in an efficient manner.

6. Coconut Water

Coconut water is just what it sounds like, the water you get from the coconuts. However, be aware that many brands have unnecessary added sugar, so make sure to avoid them. Other than that coconut water is a healthy alternative to fruit juices, and it has just 60 calories per 8 ounce serving!

7. Detox Water

Of course the healthiest drink of all is plain old water and it is the only drink that will surely kill your thirst! However, drinking plain water can get a little boring, which is why it is always a good idea to make your own detox water with a little flavoring. Just throw a few slices of fruits like lemons, strawberries and limes in a bottle, fill it up with water and let it sit over night!

With heat waves awaiting us in the near future, it is important to hydrate our bodies with the right beverages. You are what you eat but you are also what you drink! Which beverage do you enjoy the most during the hot summer days?

Sources: foodrenegade.com, huffingtonpost.ca