Common sense tells you that downing a lot of sugary drinks is not good for you.
But did you know they are now the biggest contributors of added sugar in Australians’ diets? [1]
That’s why Cancer Council Victoria is running its ‘healthy weight’ campaign – to raise awareness of how sugary drinks can lead to unhealthy weight gain, which can increase the risk of 13 types of cancer.
One way to reduce your risk is to cut sugary drinks from your diet. We know giving up the sweet stuff is not always easy. Try these simple tricks and tips to help you make the switch:
1. Add some fruity flavour
The citrus flavour of lime, orange and lemon will offer a refreshing touch to your water without that excess sugar. Enhance your water game by adding other fruity flavours like mixed berries. This not only adds a splash of colour and fun to your water but also nudges you closer to hitting your recommended fruit intake for the day – two birds, one stone! Try these fruity flavours to get you started:
- Raspberries
- Strawberries
- Cherries
- Pineapple
Hot tip: let the water sit in the fridge for a few hours to infuse the flavours of the fruit.
2. Get creative with ice cubes
Chop up your fruit or herb of choice and add it to an ice cube tray with water before letting it do its thing in the freezer.
While you’re near the freezer why not prep a great frosty treat for later. LiveLighter’s tutti fruity watermelon popsicles are a breeze to prepare and a joy to eat.
3. Infuse, infuse, infuse
For a fresh hit add some mint to your glass or switch things up with any of these herbs for more subtle flavour enhancements:
- Sage leaves
- Thai basil
- Thyme
- Ginger
4. Try different types of water
Think you’re just restricted to tap water? Think again. Change it up by trying different types of water like spring or mineral water. If you’re missing the fizz go for sparkling water. You’ll still get that bubbly sensation you might be missing, minus the sugar.
5. Veg it up
For a crisp taste add LiveLighter’s cucumber skewers to still or sparkling water for your most sophisticated water yet.
[1] Louie J, Rangan A. Patterns of added sugars intake by eating occasion among a nationally representative sample of Australians, Springer Journal, 2016: Heidelberg.