As we approach the summer season, everyone is on the lookout for quick ways to shed those extra kilos. The natural approach is too often focused on the types of food we eat. But it’s always important to never overlook the impact of what we tend to drink. Sugar soft drinks, juices and cocktails are beverages that sneak in those extra kilojoules, which can make weight management difficult.
Liquid calories, unlike solid foods, do not make us feel full, meaning we can tend to consume more kilojoules than we realise just based off what we drink.
Let’s take a closer look at the kilojoule and calorie counts of some popular drinks and why switching to healthier options can help keep your waistline in check.
Here’s how some of our favourite drinks stack up (per serving):
- Apple juice (250ml): 489kJ / 117 calories
- Orange juice (250ml): 468kJ / 112 calories
- Beer (350ml): 430kJ / 103 calories
- Cappuccino (light) made with skim milk, no sugar (250ml): 309kJ / 74 calories
- Café Latte (light)made with skim milk, no sugar (250ml): 280kJ / 67 calories
- Milkshake (250ml): 1 279kJ / 306 calories
- Energy drink (250ml): 451kJ / 108 calories
- Carbonated/fizzy drink (250ml): 380kJ / 91 calories
- Fruit punch (250ml): 476kJ / 114 calories
- Cranberry juice cocktail: (250ml): 572kJ / 137 calories
- Margarita (250ml): 2 261kJ / 541 calories *recipe dependent
- Champagne (100ml): 363kJ / 87 calories
- Red wine (250ml): 836kJ / 200 calories
- White wine (250ml): 815kJ / 195 calories
- Fruit smoothie (250ml): 677kJ / 162 calories *recipe dependent
- Black coffee (250ml): 8kJ / 2 calories
In contrast to most of the beverages listed above, homegrown Rooibos contains no calories.
According to spokesperson for the SA Rooibos Council Marthane Swart, tisane is a great choice for those who are looking to cut some calories without sacrificing the element of flavour. “Not only does it have zero calories, but it’s also packed with health benefits that make it ideal for people of all ages.
“Considering that the average person consumes several cups or glasses of many of the above drinks each day without realising the toll they’re taking on their calorie intake, even just two or three sugary drinks a day can contribute significantly to weight gain.
“On average, adults should aim to consume around 8 700kJ (approximately 2 300 calories) per day. If you drink two standard 330ml soft drinks and one cappuccino made with full cream milk in a day, that’s nearly 440 calories or 22% of your daily recommended intake. This doesn’t even include the calories from meals and snacks.
“Sipping on Rooibos offers a flavourful alternative that helps you avoid all those unnecessary kilojoules,” says Swart.
While cutting calories is important, Rooibos offers much more than a low-energy option.
Research indicates that rooibos is rich in antioxidants like aspalathin, which can combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Evidence suggests that Rooibos can support our heart health by reducing both cholesterol levels and blood pressure. It also assists in regulating blood glucose, making it a valuable all in the management and prevention of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
In a world where many are seeking natural health solutions, Rooibos provides a scientifically backed way to improve overall well-being.
A key factor to remember as the temperature rises is hydration. Beverages with caffeine – like coffee and energy drinks – can have a diuretic effect, leading to dehydration. Rooibos, on the other hand, is naturally caffeine-free and hydrating.
“Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hiking in the mountains, Rooibos is an excellent choice to keep you hydrated without the added sugars or caffeine that can leave you feeling sluggish,” Swart adds.
As we get closer to summer, there’s no better time to reassess our daily drinking habits. By replacing high-calorie drinks with herbal tisanes like Rooibos, you can easily reduce your kilojoule intake and enjoy the added health benefits.
Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Rooibos this summer:
- Brew a large pitcher of iced Rooibos with a splash of lemon or mint for a refreshing, sugar-free summer drink.
- Use Rooibos as a base for your smoothies instead of high-calorie juices or milk.
- Substitute your morning cappuccino with Rooibos for a delicious, guilt-free start to the day.
So, the next time you reach for a drink, think about how it fits into your health and fitness goals. With Rooibos, you can stay hydrated, refreshed and ready to embrace summer with confidence.
ALSO SEE: A survey finds that South African men prefer rooibos tea more than beer
A survey finds that South African men prefer rooibos tea more than beer
Feature image: Supplied
