Have you walked down the drink aisle of your local quick stop or 7-11 lately?  There are literally hundreds of drinks claiming to give you more energy, greater immune defense or a significant reduction of stress.  Many even claim to be the next best thing in quick and easy weight loss.  But do these seemingly magical drinks really do what they claim?  As a consumer, it is important for you to know the facts and read the labels before you buy.

Today’s Americans have increased their calorie intake by 15 percent over the last twenty years.  Of this amount, about half are a result of buying more sweetened drinks.  Many would be surprised that a popular sweet coffee drink actually contains as many calories as a fast food double burger!  Unfortunately, many of these drinks contain dubious supplements, double shots of caffeine and huge amounts of high fructose corn syrup.

Picture a regular work day for you.  Perhaps a quick stop to Starbucks, a soda at lunch, maybe a vending machine “green tea” at 3 and a well deserved beer at night.  By the time your day is over you have consumed 700 to 800 calories from liquid – equaling an extra pound a week!

How do you choose wisely?  The safest and healthiest, of course, is water.  If you don’t drink enough a day it can lead to drowsiness, aching and headaches.  If you are craving something a bit different, just remember – if it is sweet, it is probably filled with sugar.  Look at your label and find high fructose corn syrup.  Chances are it is first or second on the list.  If this is true, put the bottle down and just walk away. 

If your drink is creamy, frothy and face it – deliciously smooth – it is probably something to save for a special rainy day.  Consumer reports states that a Dunkin’ Donuts Vanilla Bean Coolatta has enough saturated fat for an entire day.

Are you eyeing a drink that is claiming to give you energy?  If it is after lunch (or even in the morning), this may be a tempting splurge.  But look again.  Drinks promising energy are loaded with huge amounts of caffeine, sugar and empty calories.  They may give you a lift for a while, but will ultimately lead you to a crash shortly thereafter.

Drinks that contain the following should be crossed right off your beverage list:

• Sugars such as high fructose corn syrup, galactose, glucose and sucrose.

• Stimulants such as caffeine and ginseng, both of which can lead to heart problems, bone loss and high blood pressure.

• Herbal ingredients like milk thistle, bee pollen and ginkgo biloba.  These may have dangerous side effects or may be possible allergens.

• Vitamins may sound healthful – but can be more than the recommended daily dosage and are probably not very effective.  Get your vitamins the healthy way – with plenty of fruits, vegetables, beans and lean meats.

Processed drinks should be carefully scrutinized before being purchased.  And when you are dining out, be aware of the glass size and don’t be afraid to leave some behind.  Remember that alcohol can lead to consuming more food and therefore calories – so enjoy a glass and stop at that.  When it comes to purchasing drinks (or food for that matter), do not hesitate to be particular.  Only you know what is best for your own body – not the drink manufacturer who is only interested in making the most eye catching label.