Drinks That Sabotage Weight Loss — and What to Choose Instead

Weight loss efforts don’t just depend on what you eat — what you drink matters just as much. Sugary beverages such as sweetened juices, energy drinks, and creamy shakes can seriously hinder your progress and even contribute to weight gain. These drinks are often loaded with sugar and empty calories, providing little to no nutritional value while increasing your overall calorie intake.

They can also raise your risk for several health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and fatty liver disease.

The Worst Offenders

• Creamy, sugary shakes
  A medium-sized chocolate shake can contain up to 570 calories and 66 grams of sugar — more than a full meal, with far less nutrition.

• Energy and sports drinks
  These often contain as much or more sugar than soda, and unless you’re doing intense physical activity, they’re unnecessary and counterproductive.

• Sweetened coffee drinks
  Coffee made with cream and sugar can add hundreds of hidden calories to your daily intake without you even noticing.

• Alcoholic beverages
  A glass of beer or wine contains around 150 calories, while a single cocktail can exceed 300 calories. Alcohol also slows digestion and can lead to overeating, especially high-calorie snacks after drinking.

Healthier Alternatives for Weight Loss

Instead of sugary drinks, opt for low-calorie beverages that support your health goals:

• Water with lemon or mint – refreshing and hydrating

• Unsweetened herbal or green tea – boosts metabolism with no added sugar

• Black coffee – low in calories and energizing

• Low-sodium vegetable juice – lower in sugar than fruit juice and rich in nutrients

Replacing sugary drinks with healthier, low-calorie options can make a major difference in your weight loss journey and overall well-being. Small daily choices add up to big results over time.