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The Best Healthy Drinks On The Market

Discover the top 5 healthy drinks on the market today to quench your thirst while taking care of your body and health

Reviewed and fact-checked by certified nutritionists.

In this guide:

  • What are the best and tastiest types of healthy drinks
  • What kind of health benefits can you expect from these drinks
  • The top 5 best healthy drinks on the market today, according to nutritionists
75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated, according to the National Institutes of Health. Even mild dehydration can have very negative consequences for our energy levels, mood, immune system, and cognitive performance.
One of the main reasons people are dehydrated is that they don’t drink enough water, often because they find the taste bland or “boring”. Many people prefer to drink sodas or sugary beverages to quench their thirst. The problem is: these drinks are filled with sugar and other artificial substances that can wreck your health and make you even more dehydrated than before…
For these reasons, more and more people are looking for “healthy drinks” that are not only tastier than water, but also much better for their health than traditional sodas or energy drinks.
From coconut water to herbal teas to fruit-infused alpine water, there are a variety of healthy drink options if your goal is to quench your thirst and satisfy your taste buds, while staying perfectly hydrated and healthy. Some of these drinks can even boost your cognitive performance, increase your energy, and boost your immune system, among others…
In this article, we will discover the best and tastiest types of healthy drinks to consume, according to nutritionists. We will also share a list of five high-quality healthy drinks on the market today, according to dietitians. Our guide has been carefully reviewed by professional nutritionists and dieticians, to ensure high-quality and accurate information.

What are the key benefits of drinking healthy drinks, according to science*

*All these key benefits have been documented by clinical studies published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
  • Improved focus & alertness: Ingredients like L-theanine, commonly found in green tea, can enhance attention and focus, especially when combined with caffeine.
  • Reduced mental fatigue: Drinks with adaptogens, like Panax ginseng, can combat stress and mental fatigue, allowing for sustained cognitive performance.
  • Natural energy boost: Drinks like green tea can provide a natural caffeine boost, increasing alertness and stamina without the jitters often associated with synthetic caffeine.
  • Improved digestive health: Probiotic-rich beverages, like kombucha, can aid digestion by promoting a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn can positively influence metabolism
  • Strengthened immune system: Beverages infused with vitamins, like vitamin C or zinc, can bolster the immune system, making it more effective in warding off infections.
  • Improved mood: Natural compounds like the polyphenols in green tea can play a role in promoting positive mood by influencing neurotransmitters.
  • Maintained hydration: Herbal teas, fruit-infused water, and other healthy beverages ensure the body remains hydrated, essential for every cellular function.

If you’re bored by water, don’t drink this

Many people turn to sodas and energy drinks when they get bored by water. These sweet beverages are typically more satisfying to the palate and may give you a little boost of energy.
But they are also very unhealthy:
  • According to a large-scale study from the Journal of the American Heart Association, drinking soda on a regular basis can lead to a 23% increase in the risk of having a cardiovascular disease – defined as the first instance of a heart attack, coronary artery bypass, or having a stroke. 
  • According to a study published in “The Lancet” in 2015, sugar-sweetened beverages may be linked to up to 184,000 adult deaths each year worldwide.
  • Excessive fructose from sodas can overload the liver, leading to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. A study in the “Journal of Hepatology” found that consuming even just one can of soda per day was linked to a higher risk of developing fatty liver disease.
  • A typical 12-ounce can of soda contains 35 to 40 grams of sugar, which is equivalent to about 8-10 teaspoons. The American Heart Association recommends no more than 25 grams of added sugars per day for women and 38 grams for men.
For these reasons, nutritionists recommend that you stay away from these sweet drinks such as sodas or regular energy drinks (Red Bull, Monster, etc.). Instead, they recommend opting for healthy beverages.
“Consumers who are bored by water but worried about the harmful effects of sodas on their health should look for healthy beverages options. Fruit-infused water, for instance, can satisfy your palate with interesting flavours while at the same time giving you a strong hydration and vitamin boost. Organic energy drinks, made of natural ingredients and raw plant extracts, are also a great choice if you’re looking to boost your health while enjoying yourself”.
Dr. Aiden Vale
Integrative Nutrition Specialist and Wellness Consultant

What are some healthy beverages you can drink (tastier than water, healthier than sodas)

Kombucha

Kombucha is a fermented tea drink characterized by its natural effervescence and distinctive tangy flavor. Originating from ancient traditions, it combines sweet and sour notes with a hint of carbonation.

PROS:

  • Contains probiotics, potentially beneficial for gut health.
  • Offers antioxidants which may support cellular health.
  • Provides a carbonated alternative without artificial ingredients.

CONS:

  • Acquired taste; not everyone enjoys its tanginess.
  • Some store-bought varieties might have added sugars.
  • Fermentation process can result in a small amount of alcohol content.
Herbal Teas

Herbal teas comprise a large range of beverages made by steeping herbs, flowers, or fruits in hot water. They come in several flavors, from soothing chamomile to hibiscus, offering a caffeine-free alternative to traditional teas.

PROS:

  • Caffeine-free, suitable for those avoiding stimulants.
  • Variety of flavors.
  • Often associated with potential health benefits, depending on the herb.

CONS:

  • Lacks the caffeine boost that some consumers might seek.
  • Some herbal teas can interact with medications.
  • Flavor strength can vary, requiring experimentation for desired taste.
Fruit-infused Water

Fruit-infused water is simply water enriched with the natural flavors of fresh fruits, vegetables, or herbs. It's a subtle and refreshing way to enjoy hydration with a fruity taste.

PROS:

  • Provides hydration with added flavor without many extra calories.
  • Encourages increased water consumption, as these drinks are typically mainly made of water.
  • Endless flavor combinations to suit individual preferences.

CONS:

  • Flavors can be mild, and might not satisfy those seeking stronger tastes.
  • Fresh ingredients can shorten shelf life compared to plain water.
Coconut Water

Fruit-infused water is simply water enriched with the natural flavors of fresh fruits, vegetables, or herbs. It's a subtle and refreshing way to enjoy hydration with a fruity taste.

PROS:

  • Provides hydration with added flavor without many extra calories.
  • Encourages increased water consumption, as these drinks are typically mainly made of water.
  • Endless flavor combinations to suit individual preferences.

CONS:

  • Flavors can be mild, and might not satisfy those seeking stronger tastes.
  • Fresh ingredients can shorten shelf life compared to plain water.
Healthy Energy Drinks

Healthy energy drinks are beverages designed to boost energy, alertness, and focus, often formulated with natural ingredients like green tea extracts, B vitamins, and adaptogenic herbs.

PROS:

  • Provides an energy boost for increased alertness and focus.
  • May contain natural sources of caffeine without synthetic additives.
  • Often enriched with vitamins and beneficial molecules.

CONS:

  • Can still contain caffeine, which might be unsuitable for some individuals.
  • Some might have hidden sugars or sweeteners.
  • Overconsumption can lead to restlessness or disrupted sleep patterns.

What are some of the healthiest ingredients you can find in healthy drinks

Ginger:

Ginger is a spicy, fragrant root used both as a culinary spice and herbal remedy.

Health benefits:

  • Can increase energy and vitality due to its circulatory enhancing properties.
  • Aids digestion and soothes upset stomachs.
  • Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
  • May help reduce muscle pain and soreness.
  • Alleviates nausea, especially morning sickness.

Panax Ginseng:

Panax ginseng, often known as "true ginseng," is a root traditionally used for its revitalizing properties.

Health benefits:

  • Traditionally taken to boost energy and combat fatigue.
  • Enhances physical stamina and mental clarity.
  • Strengthens the immune system.
  • Potentially sharpens cognitive function and reduces mental fatigue.
  • Anti-inflammatory effects.

Panax ginseng, often known as "true ginseng," is a root traditionally used for its revitalizing properties.

Probiotics:

Probiotics are beneficial live bacteria and yeasts that support digestive health.

Health benefits:

  • Supports a balanced gut microbiome, which has indirect effects on energy by improving nutrient absorption.
  • Aids digestion and reduces symptoms of certain digestive disorders.
  • Boosts immune function.
  • Can prevent or reduce the severity of colds and infections.

Aloe Vera:

A succulent plant species, the leaves of which produce a clear, gel-like substance.

Health benefits:

  • Aids in digestion, ensuring optimal nutrient absorption for energy.
  • Supports immune function.
  • Anti-inflammatory properties can potentially lead to better overall health, indirectly supporting vitality.
  • Topically, it soothes skin irritations and burns.

Green Tea:

Green tea is made from unoxidized tea leaves and contains various bioactive compounds.

Health benefits:

  • Contains caffeine, which can enhance alertness, mood, and stamina.
  • L-theanine in green tea provides a calm alertness, balancing the effects of caffeine.
  • Antioxidant properties support overall vitality.
  • May boost metabolic rate, potentially aiding in fat oxidation.

L-tyrosine:

L-tyrosine is an amino acid used by the body to produce neurotransmitters.

Health benefits:

  • Supports the production of neurotransmitters that influence mood and energy.
  • May improve cognitive function, especially in stressful situations.
  • Can potentially alleviate feelings of stress and fatigue.
  • Might help in maintaining alertness during sleep deprivation.

Effects of Tyrosine on mental accuracy

In a placebo-controlled study evaluating the effect of L-Tyrosine on cognitive flexibility, participants showed 91% mental accuracy during an n-back task, compared to 87% for placebo

How to choose a healthy drink

With dozens of energy drinks that claim to be “the best”, it can be difficult to know what is factually true from what isn’t. Especially since these products tend to be heavily marketed.

To help you choose an energy drink that is genuinely good for you (both effective and healthy), we prepared a list of key “green flags” - following the latest recommendations from leading nutritionists.

  • Contains a high concentration of vitamins and antioxidants. Drinks rich in antioxidants can boost your energy, immune system, and make your body stronger and healthier overall. There are several flavored water products on the market that contain concentrated infusions of vitamins & antioxidants. This is a usually a green flag (assuming they don’t contain additives or artificial sweeteners)
  • Contains ingredients with proven health benefits. To have a real positive impact on your health, drinks need to use ingredients whose benefits have been proven in clinical studies. For example, panax ginseng, green tea, ginger, aloe vera, or L-tyrosine (to name a few), have all been clinically proven to produce measurable health benefits. These benefits include: improved cognition, increased energy, stronger metabolism, better hydration, superior digestive health, reduced mental fatigue, etc. 
  • Provides optimal hydration. A healthy drink must at least perform the role of water very well, that is, hydrate you. Dieticians recommend choosing drinks that are formulated with a high concentration of pure water to optimize your hydration levels. Fruit-infused water is a good choice in that regard (as long as it’s free of added sugar and additives). 
  • No additives, preservatives, or unhealthy artificial sweeteners (specifically aspartame and ace-K). Artificial substances such as aspartame or ace-k (often used as sweeteners in drinks) should be avoided. These chemicals can destroy gut health and have bad long-term consequences on your body. Same thing for additives and preservatives. 

The Top 5 Best Healthy Drinks On The Market Today, According To Nutritionists

To help you choose a drink that will give you a significant health boost, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 best energy drinks on the market.
This list was carefully curated in partnership with certified nutritionists, and takes several factors into consideration, including: ingredients quality, health impact, taste, value for money, and verified customer reviews.

#1 Alpine Bliss Cognitive Energy Booster

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Final Grade

9.5 /10

Energy Boost

9.5/10

Taste

9.7/10

Value for Money

9.0/10

Ingredient Quality

9.5/10

Scientific Evidence

9.2/10

THE BOTTOM LINE

Alpine Bliss is a premium, fast-growing Swiss brand of flavored sparkling water offering functional health benefits, using clinically studied ingredients. The Alpine Bliss Cognitive Energy Booster is a powerful, fruity, natural energy drink that combines pure alpine water sourced from the European Alps with organic energy-boosting ingredients.
One of the standout features of this Alpine Bliss is its ability to provide a strong, sustained boost of energy for several hours, without causing unpleasant energy crashes often associated with traditional energy drinks. This is achieved through a unique blend of high-quality plant-based ingredients, including 70 mg of caffeine from natural source, L-tyrosine, panax ginseng, and high-purity ginger root extract.
All ingredients contained in the drink have been clinically proven to provide health benefits, including improved cognition, greater vitality, stronger metabolism, among others. The drink ensures optimal hydration levels, as it’s mostly composed from ultra-pure water from the European Alps – a pristine, crisp water naturally enriched in vital minerals.
Aside from enhancing mental and physical energy, this formula is also known for creating a distinct feeling of well-being thanks to a proprietary blend of plant-based ingredients called DopaBliss™. This natural blend is specifically designed to boost cognitive levels – the “happy hormone” responsible for making us feel good and happy.
From a nutrition standpoint, the drink is also scoring pretty well. The formula contains zero added sugar, just 25 calories per can, and only 5 grams of natural sugar from wild berries. It doesn’t contain any harmful artificial sweeteners like aspartame or ace-K. The drink is also a rich source of vitamin B6 and B12 – two vitamins that promote a healthy metabolism.
Beyond its functional health benefits, the Alpine Bliss formula also performs well on taste, according to consumers. Users praise its fruity wild berries flavor and refreshing fine bubbles. It strikes a delicate balance of sweetness and freshness, and delivers an enjoyable drinking experience.
On the minus side, we note that the drink is quite expensive ($3.95 per can) – which can be explained by the “fancy” ingredients that it contains, including extracts of saffron and ginger roots (some of the most expensive spices in the world). We also note that the drink is frequently out of stock, because it’s produced in limited batches as of now.
Taking all of this into consideration puts Alpine Bliss Cognitive Energy booster in our #1 spot.
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#2 Harney & Sons Chamomile Herbal Tea

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Final Grade

8.5 /10

Slimming properties

8.2/10

Taste

8.5/10

Value for Money

8.8/10

Ingredient Quality

8.6/10

Scientific Evidence

8.4/10

THE BOTTOM LINE

Harney & Sons Chamomile Herbal Tea is a top-rated herbal tea product in the US.This brand is known for its commitment to quality and sustainability, reflected in its sourcing of chamomile from Egypt.
The company only uses flower heads, as opposed to some other brands that use stems and other parts of the plant as filler, ensuring a pure and authentic chamomile flavor.
The taste of Harney & Sons Chamomile Herbal Tea is often praised for its fruity, honeyed complexity. It’s made from 100% chamomile, with no added sugars or artificial ingredients, aligning with the brand’s commitment to natural and healthy products. This tea is very healthy, tastier than water, and is easy to prepare.
However, this product does come at a higher price point compared to some other brands. While many consumers believe the quality and taste justify the cost, budget-conscious shoppers might find it a bit pricey.
Another potential downside is that the tea comes in sachets, which some tea enthusiasts might not prefer over loose leaf tea for freshness and flavor reasons.
In conclusion, Harney & Sons Chamomile Herbal Tea is a high-quality product with a commitment to quality sourcing and natural ingredients. Its refreshing taste and health benefits make it a favorite among consumers. However, its higher price point and use of sachets may deter some individuals.
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#3 Zevia Energy Drink

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Final Grade

8.8 /10

Energy Boost

8.5/10

Taste

9.0/10

Value for Money

9.0/10

Ingredient Quality

8.5/10

Scientific Evidence

9.0/10

THE BOTTOM LINE

Zevia Zero Calorie Energy Drink, with flavours including Raspberry Lime and Pineapple Coconut, is a good option for people looking for a healthier energy boost.
The drink contains no sugar, no carbs, no sodium, no fat, and it is suitable for a variety of diets including vegan, kosher, Paleo, and Keto. Sweetened with stevia leaf extract, this makes it an appropriate option for those who are on a diet but who still want to drink energy beverages for the energy kick they provide.
The primary source of energy is 120 milligrammes of caffeine per can, which comes from green tea leaves.
While this provides a large energy boost, moderation is essential due to the potential negative consequences of excessive caffeine consumption. We note that this dose of caffeine is slightly more than what is needed to provide a sustainable energy boost without side effects.
Such doses of caffeine may cause jitters and crashes for certain people who are sensitive to caffeine.
While most users appear to be satisfied with this drink, the taste of Zevia is not for everyone. The drink obtained mixed reviews on its taste, with some consumers finding it overly sweet and a bit too chemical in taste.
It does remain a strong option in the field of healthier, better-for-you energy drinks.

#4 Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water

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Final Grade

8.2/10

Slimming properties

8.5/10

Taste

7.8/10

Value for Money

8.2/10

Ingredient Quality

8.3/10

Scientific Evidence

8.1/10

THE BOTTOM LINE

Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water is a popular coconut water product in the US. This product has been recognized for its commitment to social accountability and fair trade, which is reflected in its Fair For Life certification. This certification ensures that the brand positively impacts the communities it works with, which is a significant pro for ethically-minded consumers.
The taste of Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water is often praised for its freshness and authenticity, making it feel like you’re sipping straight from a coconut. It’s made from 100% organic coconuts, with no added sugars or artificial ingredients, aligning with the brand’s commitment to natural and healthy products.
That said, this product does contain a higher amount of carbs and sugar compared to some other brands. Each serving contains 90 calories, 25 grams of carbohydrates, and 20 grams of sugar. While these numbers are not excessively high, you may want to be careful if you’re watching your sugar or carbohydrate intake.
Another potential downside is the price point. Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water is not the cheapest option on the market. While many consumers believe the quality and taste justify the cost, budget-conscious shoppers might find it a bit pricey.
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#4 GT’s Enlightened Gingerade Kombucha

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Final Grade

7.7/10

Slimming properties

7.9/10

Taste

7.7/10

Value for Money

7.5/10

Ingredient Quality

7.8/10

Scientific Evidence

7.6/10

THE BOTTOM LINE

GT’s Enlightened Gingerade Kombucha is a well-regarded kombucha product in the US. This brand is known for its commitment to organic and raw ingredients, which is reflected in its USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified certifications. These certifications ensure that the brand maintains high standards of quality and sustainability, which is a significant advantage for health-conscious consumers.
The taste of GT’s Enlightened Gingerade Kombucha is characterized by a refreshing and tangy flavor, making it a delightful beverage to enjoy at any time of the day. It’s made from 100% organic and raw ingredients, with no added sugars or artificial ingredients, aligning with the brand’s commitment to natural and healthy products.
That being said, this product does contain a small amount of naturally occurring alcohol due to the fermentation process. While the alcohol content is less than 0.5% and thus classified as non-alcoholic, it may be a concern for some individuals.
Another potential downside is the price point. GT’s Enlightened Gingerade Kombucha is not the cheapest option on the market. While many consumers believe the quality and taste justify the cost, budget-conscious shoppers might find it a bit pricey.
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* The information contained within this site is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have, expect to have, or suspect you may have any medical condition, you are urged to consult with a health care provider. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases or medical conditions. Results do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.

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