When it comes to losing weight, reducing your consumption of sugary drinks like soda and juice is a crucial step. These drinks are often high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy macros like saturated fat and artificial sweeteners, which can sabotage your weight loss goals and negatively impact your health. In this post, we’ve put together a list of 15 healthy low-calorie, healthy drink ideas and recipes to help you get started. From refreshing smoothies to warm drinks like tea and coffee, these recipes are not only low in calories but also packed with nutrients to help you stay healthy and energized.
On the other hand, by choosing low-calorie beverages that are made with whole, natural ingredients, you can reduce your calorie intake without sacrificing taste or nutrition. These healthy drinks are typically packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can support your overall health and well-being.
Furthermore, swapping out sugary drinks for low-calorie options can help you cut down on your daily sugar intake, which can improve your energy levels, reduce your risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and help you maintain a healthy weight.
So, whether you’re looking to lose weight, improve your health, or simply reduce your sugar intake, these healthy low-calorie beverage recipes are a great place to start. They’re not only delicious and satisfying, but also nutritious and beneficial for your body.
1. Strawberry Basil Lemonade
This drink is a refreshing twist on traditional lemonade. The combination of sweet strawberries and fresh basil gives it a unique flavor that is perfect for warm summer days. As someone who loves fruity drinks, this recipe is one of my favorites. It is low in calories and sugar, making it a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine 1 cup of sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, and 1 tbsp honey.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a glass and top with sparkling water.
- Stir and enjoy!
Macros: 45 calories, 0g fat, 12g carbs, 0g protein
2. Coconut Water Smoothie
As someone who is always on the go, I love smoothies because they are quick, easy, and portable. This coconut water smoothie is not only delicious, but it is also low in calories and high in nutrients. Coconut water is a great source of hydration and potassium, while the fruit adds natural sweetness.
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine 1 cup of coconut water, 1/2 cup of frozen berries, and 1/2 banana.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a glass and enjoy!
Macros: 100 calories, 1g fat, 24g carbs, 2g protein
3. Green Tea with Honey and Lemon
Green tea is known for its health benefits, including weight loss and improved brain function. As someone who enjoys a hot drink in the morning, this recipe is perfect for me. The honey adds natural sweetness, while the lemon gives it a tangy twist.
Instructions:
- Steep 1 green tea bag in 1 cup of boiling water for 3-4 minutes.
- Remove the tea bag and add 1 tsp honey and the juice of 1/2 lemon.
- Stir and enjoy!
Macros: 20 calories, 0g fat, 5g carbs, 0g protein
4. Beet and Berry Smoothie
Beets are a great source of nutrients, including fiber, folate, and vitamin C. This smoothie is not only delicious, but it is also low in calories and high in nutrients. The combination of beets and berries adds natural sweetness and a beautiful color.
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine 1 cooked beet, 1/2 cup of frozen berries, 1/2 banana, and 1 cup of almond milk.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a glass and enjoy!
Macros: 120 calories, 3g fat, 24g carbs, 3g protein
5. Turmeric Latte
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion. This latte is not only delicious, but it is also a great way to incorporate turmeric into your diet. The almond milk adds creaminess, while the honey adds natural sweetness.
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of almond milk, 1/2 tsp turmeric, and 1 tsp honey over medium heat.
- Whisk until the mixture is hot and frothy.
- Pour the mixture into a mug and enjoy!
Macros: 70 calories, 3g fat, 10g carbs, 1g protein
6. Cinnamon Apple Cider Vinegar Drink
Apple cider vinegar has been shown to lower blood sugar levels and aid in weight loss. This drink is not
only healthy, but it is also a great way to incorporate apple cider vinegar into your diet. The cinnamon adds warmth and natural sweetness, making it a delicious and comforting drink.
Instructions:
- In a glass, combine 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp honey, 1/4 tsp cinnamon, and 1 cup of water.
- Stir until well combined.
- Enjoy!
Macros: 30 calories, 0g fat, 8g carbs, 0g protein
7. Pineapple Ginger Juice
Description: This juice is a great way to start your day. The pineapple adds natural sweetness, while the ginger adds a spicy kick. As someone who loves ginger, this recipe is one of my favorites. It is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet.
Instructions:
- In a juicer, juice 1 cup of chopped pineapple and 1 inch of fresh ginger.
- Pour the juice into a glass and enjoy!
Macros: 70 calories, 0g fat, 17g carbs, 1g protein
8. Blueberry Lemon Smoothie
Blueberries are a great source of antioxidants and can aid in brain function. This smoothie is not only delicious, but it is also low in calories and high in nutrients. The lemon adds a tangy twist, while the banana adds natural sweetness.
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine 1 cup of frozen blueberries, 1/2 banana, 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, and 1 cup of almond milk.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a glass and enjoy!
Macros: 120 calories, 3g fat, 24g carbs, 3g protein
9. Iced Matcha Latte
Matcha is a type of green tea that is high in antioxidants and can aid in weight loss. This latte is not only delicious, but it is also a great way to incorporate matcha into your diet. The almond milk adds creaminess, while the honey adds natural sweetness.
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine 1 tsp matcha powder, 1 tbsp honey, 1 cup of almond milk, and ice.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a glass and enjoy!
Macros: 90 calories, 3g fat, 14g carbs, 2g protein
10. Watermelon Lime Agua Fresca
Watermelon is a great source of hydration and can aid in digestion. This drink is not only refreshing, but it is also low in calories and sugar, making it a healthier alternative to sodas and sugary drinks. The lime adds a tangy twist, making it the perfect summer drink.
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine 3 cups of chopped watermelon, 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, and 1 cup of water.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a glass and enjoy!
Macros: 40 calories, 0g fat, 10g carbs, 1g protein
11. Spiced Chai Tea Latte
This latte is a great way to warm up during the colder months. The chai tea adds warm, spicy flavours, while the almond milk adds creaminess. This latte is low in calories and sugar, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought chai lattes.
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring 1 cup of almond milk to a simmer.
- Add 1 chai tea bag and 1 tsp honey to the almond milk.
- Steep for 3-5 minutes.
- Remove the tea bag and pour the latte into a mug.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon and enjoy!
Macros: 70 calories, 3g fat, 10g carbs, 1g protein
12. Cucumber Lime Infused Water
Infused water is a great way to stay hydrated and add natural flavors to your water. The cucumber adds a refreshing twist, while the lime adds a tangy kick. This infused water is low in calories and sugar, making it a healthier alternative to sodas and sugary drinks.
Instructions:
- In a pitcher, combine 1 sliced cucumber and 1 sliced lime.
- Fill the pitcher with water.
- Let the mixture infuse in the fridge for at least 1 hour.
- Pour the infused water into a glass and enjoy!
Macros: 0 calories, 0g fat, 0g carbs, 0g protein
13. Strawberry Basil Sparkling Water
This sparkling water is a great way to add natural flavors to your water without adding calories or sugar. The strawberries add sweetness, while the basil adds a subtle, herbaceous flavor.
Instructions:
- In a glass, muddle 2-3 sliced strawberries and 2-3 fresh basil leaves.
- Fill the glass with sparkling water.
- Stir until well combined.
- Enjoy!
Macros: 0 calories, 0g fat, 0g carbs, 0g protein
14. Pineapple Coconut Smoothie
This smoothie is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while getting a dose of healthy nutrients. The pineapple adds sweetness, while the coconut milk adds creaminess. This smoothie is low in calories and sugar, making it a healthier alternative to high-calorie milkshakes and smoothies.
Instructions:
- In a blender, combine 1 cup of frozen pineapple chunks, 1/2 cup of coconut milk, and 1/2 cup of water.
- Blend until smooth.
- Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy!
Macros: 110 calories, 7g fat, 11g carbs, 1g protein
15. Hibiscus Iced Tea
This tea is a great way to stay hydrated and add a pop of colour to your day. The hibiscus adds a tangy, slightly floral flavour, while the lemon adds a refreshing twist. This iced tea is low in calories and sugar, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought teas.
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
- Add 1/2 cup of dried hibiscus flowers and 1 sliced lemon to the water.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a pitcher.
- Let the tea cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until chilled.
- Pour the iced tea into a glass and enjoy!
Macros: 20 calories, 0g fat, 5g carbs, 0g protein
Conclusion
One of the most important steps in adopting a healthier diet is getting rid of sugary drinks like soda and juice. These drinks are often loaded with sugar, calories, and unhealthy additives that can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.
Making simple swaps to healthier, low-calorie beverages can make a big impact on your weight loss journey and overall health. By incorporating these drinks into your diet and home, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying beverages while also supporting your health and wellness goals.
Not only are these drinks easy to make and packed with nutrients, but they’re also a great way to stay hydrated throughout the day. So, whether you’re looking for a refreshing morning smoothie or a warm cup of tea before bed, these healthy low-calorie beverage recipes are a great place to start.
