Make Better Beverage Choices — 10 Tips (Printable) | MyPlate

What we drink is as important as what we eat. Many beverages contain added sugars and offer little or no nutrients, while others provide nutrients but too much fat and calories. Make better beverage choices to help you eat healthier.

Make Better Beverage Choices

What we drink is as important as what we eat. Many beverages contain added sugars and offer little or no nutrients, while others provide nutrients but too much fat and calories. Make better beverage choices to help you eat healthier.

1. Drink water

Drink water instead of sugary drinks when you're thirsty. Regular soda, energy drinks, sports drinks, and fruit drinks are some of the major sources of added sugars and calories in our diets.

2. How much water is enough?

Let your thirst be your guide. Water is an important nutrient for the body, but everyone's needs are different. Most of us get enough water from the foods we eat and the beverages we drink.

3. A thrifty option

Water is usually easy on the wallet. You can save money by drinking water from the tap at home or when eating out, instead of buying bottled or other sugary drinks.

4. Manage your calories

Drink water with and between your meals. Adults and children take in about 400 calories per day as beverages — drinking water can help you manage your calories.

5. Kid-friendly drink zone

Make water, low-fat or fat-free milk, or 100% juice an easy option in your home. Have ready-to-go containers filled with water in the refrigerator, and serve water with meals.

6. Don't forget your dairy

When you choose milk or milk alternatives, select low-fat or fat-free milk or fortified soymilk. Each type of milk offers the same key nutrients, such as calcium, vitamin D, and potassium, but the number of calories varies.

7. Enjoy your beverage

When water just won't do, enjoy the beverage of your choice, but cut back. Remember to check the serving size and the number of servings in the container to stay within your calorie needs.

8. Water on the go

Water is always a great choice. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day. It's easy to refill, easy on the environment, and easy on your wallet.

9. Check the facts

Use the Nutrition Facts label to choose beverages at the grocery store. The label contains information about total sugars, fats, and calories to help you make better choices.

10. Compare what you drink

Food-A-Pedia, an online feature, can help you compare calories, added sugars, and fats in your favorite beverages so you can choose options that fit your eating pattern.

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