quick question

Posts: 26,917
7/22/11 11:16 P

Basically, your body can extract and use the water from anything that has water in it (including solid foods) to meet your water needs. So, the question is not really whether something other than plain water "counts" as water, but rather, whether the other stuff that comes with it makes it a good choice for your needs and goals.

Some beverages, such as those with high caffeine or alcohol content (both diuretics), may also increase the amount of water your body eliminates without using, so that needs to be taken into account. Some beverages provide "empty" calories (added sugar) that need to be counted, and some provided needed nutrients. Others such as Crystal Lite use artificial sweeteners to provide flavor without calories, which appears to be safe in moderation, but could potentially cause problems if used excessively.

Here's an article from our SP Dietitian, Becky, with more info:

Healthy Beverage Guidelines .

Hope this helps!

Coach Denise

Posts: 44
7/22/11 8:05 A

I love water and can drink it down without thinking about it. I drink no less then 128oz a day before I stop counting. Every now and then i have a carving so I will drink a mild warm tea without any sweetners or take real fruit juice and water it down (1part juice 2 to 3 parts water). I think that's far better and helps with cravings.

Edited by: NAPPYKEMPS at: 7/22/2011 (08:11)

Posts: 1,613
7/22/11 7:40 A

I use the 4C sugar free fruit punch. I put it in a bottle of water bigger than what the serving size says. That way, I get some flavor, but the benes of water. I agree though with EOWYN2424...nothing beats cold water. I find that it quenches my thirst better than room temp water.

Edited by: FEDGIRL4 at: 7/22/2011 (07:41)

Posts: 3,546
7/22/11 12:40 A

If you use the packets, be sure you look at the sugars. I have always been a water drinker but I do use the packets occasionally because they can be counted as a treat and take away my cravings for something else.

Propel can sometimes trick you because it says 10 calories but it also pretends to be two servings.

Edited by: RONIH2O at: 7/22/2011 (00:43)

Posts: 160
7/21/11 11:25 P

Good Luck, I'm personally not a water drinker, However I have made a point to drink more and more water each day.

On a good note, I find that the more water I do drink, the more I want to drink.

Posts: 614
7/21/11 11:21 P

I would think it would be okay. I use drink mixes sometimes- like Propel or Crystal Light Pure. I would stay away from Aspartame though. Propel doesnt have Aspartame and neither does the Crystal Light pure, although they both do have calories. Crystal Light Pure has 15 in each 16.9 oz bottle and I think maybe 0 in the Propel, so make sure if you're counting calories to also include the ones from your drinks.

SparkPoints: (57,809)
Fitness Minutes: (36,607)
Posts: 1,752
7/21/11 11:17 P

I find the flavored waters too sweet, however I have never been a soda drinker.
Soif you are coming off soda...this would be a good change.
My trick with water is to have a glass each hour until its a habit!

SparkPoints: (93,473)
Fitness Minutes: (13,776)
Posts: 4,642
7/21/11 11:10 P

Water is the best drink actually. I love water! Especially ice-cold water from the fridge! Nothing beats it!

Posts: 81
7/21/11 11:09 P

if they are not full of sugar, I have heard all good things about them. I have no problem with water so I have only used them here and there.

Posts: 1,488
7/21/11 11:02 P

I have no advice re: the flavor packets, but PLEASE don't call it (or think of it as) a diet. Think of it as a healthier lifestyle or something similar and you'll probably find it's a lot more enjoyable and long-lasting.

Enjoy your journey!

I would think the flavor packets would be o.k. if they don't contain sugar or many calories. In the long run, you're probably best without the added chemicals, etc., however.

Posts: 29
7/21/11 10:06 P

I officially kick off my diet Monday! Im soooo ready except for the water part. I am NOT a water drinker. My question is if i buy those flavor packs for my water is that gonna be ok?