When it comes to shedding those extra pounds, the journey often begins with the simplest changes in our daily habits. Calories are a buzzword in the weight loss world and everyone dreads it. Did you know that what we see as calories is not the whole picture? We only consider the calories we get from food. What about the calories we get from beverages? Surprised? Well, these are called liquid calories and consuming too much of them is bad for weight loss. While we focus on avoiding fried and junk food, what is often overlooked is our liquid intake. These harmless-looking beverages can hamper our weight loss efforts by hiding extra calories. Fear not, because we have gathered some easy tips to help you keep those liquid calories away and take steps towards your weight loss goals.
Before we know how to avoid liquid calories, we must know the truth about calories. As bad as it may sound, calories are not that bad for our health. Consultant Nutritionist Rupali Dutta explains, “Calories are actually a measure of energy and our body needs it to survive!” So, a certain amount of calories from good food and drink sources are indeed good for you, but you must be careful about their quantity and manner of intake and definitely avoid excessive and harmful calorie intake. Carbonated drinks, energy drinks and artificially flavored drinks – all are sources of harmful liquid calories. So, how can you stop consuming them? Find out below.
Read this also: Hidden Truth: Why counting calories can’t make you healthy
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Here are 5 tips to keep away harmful liquid calories:
1. Rise and shine with warm water:
Start every morning by drinking a glass of lukewarm water with a teaspoon of honey and lemon. This ritual speeds up your metabolism and helps flush out toxins from your system, paving the way for more effective weight loss.
2. Keep hydration within reach:
After starting the day with water, it is important to keep that momentum going throughout the day. Keep a water bottle with you and you will stay hydrated all day long and won’t need any unhealthy beverages to quench your thirst.
3. Add water to your diet
If plain water is losing its appeal, infused water may be the refreshing solution for you. Drink water infused with your favorite fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The flavor boost will keep you from missing other beverages that you shouldn’t drink.
4. Say goodbye to sweet drinks:
Aerated drinks, sugary sodas and packaged fruit juices may be tempting, but they can sabotage your weight loss journey. These seemingly harmless beverages often hide excess sugar that can lead to weight gain.
5. Limit your caffeine intake
If you can’t live without coffee or tea, you’re not alone. These beverages have many health benefits, but it’s important to find a balance. Excessive caffeine consumption can lead to dehydration, causing you to consume more harmful liquid calories.
By making careful decisions about your fluid intake, you are taking an important step toward achieving your weight loss goals.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
