Doctor Verified
While certain health drinks might have some advantages, some might not be as healthy as they appear to be.
- Written by: Sushmita Sharma
- Updated at: Apr 19, 2023 17:59 IST
Taking care of your health is of utmost importance and one should never miss trying out the options that can promote health. One such practice that has been widely followed is the consumption of health drinks. In recent years, health drinks have gained popularity as more individuals turn to them as a quick and convenient way to increase their nutrient intake. But are these beverages good for you? While certain health drinks might have some advantages, some might not be as healthy as they appear to be.
We spoke to our expert Dr Rohini Patil, MBBS and Certified Nutritionist, who shared her insights on whether packaged or powdered health drinks are healthy for you.
What are Health Drinks?
Health drinks refer to a variety of beverages that are promoted as being healthy. They may be fortified with probiotics, vitamins, and minerals in addition to frequently incorporating protein, fibre, and other nutrients. Drinks that are considered healthy include sports drinks, smoothies, green juices, and protein shakes.
Also Read:Eating Protein Vs Drinking Protein: Expert Explains Which Is Better
Expert’s Take On Health Drinks
The trending yet traditional practice of packaged or powered health drinks certainly generates concern among people about whether it’s truly beneficial or not. In most cases, they are not healthy for adults. Packaged foods contain preservatives, and artificial flavourings that are sometimes not good for health. In addition, the quantity of sugar and sodium present in them is also not per the health standards.
Some packaged or powdered health drinks may contain added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or other unhealthy additives. In addition, some of these products may not provide the same nutritional benefits as whole foods because they are highly processed. Therefore, always check its ingredients and consult with an expert before consuming it in the long run.
Also Read:Protein Supplements: Debunking The Top Myths
What Benefits Do Health Drinks Have
Even though health drinks are not completely healthy, however, they may serve some benefits. The fact that health drinks can make it simple to increase your consumption of nutrients is one of their key advantages. Health drinks can fill in some of the nutritional gaps that many individuals experience while trying to eat a balanced diet that includes all the vitamins and minerals their bodies require. Packaged or powdered health drinks can be a convenient way to supplement your diet with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. However, the health benefits of these drinks depend on the specific ingredients and the overall quality of the product.
Bottomline
It's crucial to pick the appropriate health beverages because they can help with nutritional intake and improve overall health. When feasible, choose healthy beverages that are created with natural foods and little added sugar. Drinks that have been heavily processed and may include additives or preservatives should be avoided, and you should be aware of any hidden allergens or other components that could be harmful to your health.
Read Next
Calcium-Rich Foods For Vegans
Disclaimer