Quenching your thirst just got a whole lot better


Thirst is your body's way of telling you it needs fluids and needs hydration. But it can't tell you what to drink. That's your choice.


Q:

How can I quench my thirst but save on kilojoules?
A: Last issue we asked you what you like to drink when you're thirsty. 78 per cent of you told us that you reach for water when you need to quench your thirst. But, did you know that you can still reach for your favourite drink to keep hydrated without adding extra kilojoules?

If you're not in the mood for water, it's okay to reach for something else you enjoy, like tea, juice or a sugar-free soft drink. A diet or sugar-free soft drink for example contains between 88 and 99 percent water and no kilojoules and can help quench your thirst and provide your body with its daily liquid for proper hydration. Of course water is always the best choice; it's just not the only one.

Q: What about caffeinated drinks?
A: For years, we have been told that we need eight glasses of water daily for proper hydration. But new scientific guidelines from The Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Science (IOM/NAS) say all beverages, including those that contain caffeine, contribute to proper hydration.

Q: Are there nutritional benefits to quenching your thirst with a drink other than water?
A: Yes, a serving of 100 percent juice is a good source of vitamin C, folate and potassium. Many varieties also have added nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D to keep your bones strong or antioxidants and phytochemicals that may have potential health benefits.

  
  Liven up your taste buds and reduce kilojoules by mixing and matching these suggestions for a new twist on refreshing beverages.

 
© 2006 The Coca-Cola Company. 'Coca-Cola' and 'Make Every Drop Matter' are trade marks of The Coca-Cola Company.