Health
Hate water? Here are 5 healthy alternatives, according to an NFL sports dietitian
![Hate water? Here are 5 healthy alternatives, according to an NFL sports dietitian Hate water? Here are 5 healthy alternatives, according to an NFL sports dietitian](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/01/woman-drinking-bottled-water.jpg)
Water is widely recommended as the healthiest beverage — but what if it’s not your thing?
As it’s much easier to stay hydrated if you choose a drink you enjoy, Jordan Mazur, a San Francisco-based professional sports dietitian and nutrition adviser to the beverage company Hint Water, is offering more palatable alternatives for H2O haters.
“Water is undoubtedly the best choice for hydration, but there are other healthy alternatives,” he told Fox News Digital.
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Here’s what to know.
What to drink instead — and what to avoid
Herbal teas, especially those without caffeine, can contribute to daily fluid intake.
Jordan Mazur, a San Francisco-based professional sports dietitian and nutrition adviser to the beverage company Hint Water, offers hydration tips. (Jordan Mazur)
Coconut water is another good option due to its electrolyte content, which can be beneficial for rehydration, according to Mazur, a sports dietitian for the San Francisco 49ers.
“Milk, both dairy and plant-based alternatives, provides hydration along with essential nutrients like calcium,” he said.
Another option is to add some pizzazz to water to make it more appetizing.
![Lemon water](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/02/1200/675/lemon-in-water.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Adding fruit to water can make it more appealing for people who find plain water boring. (iStock)
“If you think water can be boring at times, try infusing water by adding slices of fruit like cucumber, lemon or berries to enhance its flavor and add a subtle boost of vitamins,” Mazur suggested.
There are also ready-to-drink alternatives that add natural flavor to water without any added calories or artificial sweeteners, he said.
Alternatives to avoid
Alcohol and sugary drinks, including sodas and fruit juices with added sugars, are not ideal alternatives to water, Mazur cautioned.
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“While they do contribute to fluid intake, the high sugar content can have adverse health effects, including weight gain and increased risk of metabolic disorders,” he said.
Caffeinated beverages like coffee and certain teas can have a diuretic effect, potentially leading to increased fluid loss, Mazur added.
Importance of hydration
As a professional sports dietitian, Mazur works with high-performing athletes at the peak of their sport.
“Proper hydration is a core part of our daily nutrition plan to replenish fluids lost during exercise and enable proper recovery throughout the season,” he told Fox News Digital.
![Woman drinking workout](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/02/1200/675/drinking-during-workout.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Hydration needs can vary according to different factors, such as physical activity levels, environmental conditions and health status. (iStock)
“Even if you’re not paid to play a sport professionally, the principles of hydration can still be applied to everyone.”
Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining bodily functions, Mazur said.
“Water plays a pivotal role in digestion, nutrient absorption, temperature regulation and waste elimination,” he said.
“Adequate hydration ensures optimal organ function and overall well-being.”
Warning signs of dehydration
Common signs of dehydration include dark yellow urine, dry mouth, headache, dizziness and fatigue, Mazur said.
“Additionally, a lack of sweat during physical activity, reduced urine output and increased heart rate can indicate dehydration,” he said.
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“It’s essential to pay attention to these signals and increase fluid intake accordingly.”
Dehydration can impair cognitive function and physical performance, and can even lead to serious health issues, the expert said.
What’s the right amount?
The general guideline is to follow your body’s signals, according to Mazur.
“Monitoring the color of your urine is also helpful — light yellow usually indicates proper hydration,” he said.
![Man drinking tea](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/02/1200/675/man-drinking-tea.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Herbal tea is an example of a healthy alternative to water, an expert said. (iStock)
Hydration needs can also vary according to different factors, he said — such as physical activity levels, environmental conditions and health status.
“For example, during exercise, especially in hot or humid environments, individuals lose fluids through sweating, increasing their need for hydration to maintain optimal performance and prevent dehydration,” Mazur said.
![Woman drinking water](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/01/1200/675/woman-drinking-bottled-water.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
“Water is undoubtedly the best choice for hydration, but there are other healthy alternatives,” an expert told Fox News Digital. (iStock)
“Similarly, during illnesses characterized by fever, vomiting or diarrhea, the body loses fluids more rapidly, requiring increased hydration to compensate for these losses and support recovery.”
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When making recommendations to his clients, Mazur uses the “8×8 rule,” or about 8 cups (64 ounces) of water per day, adjusting based on unique requirements and environmental conditions.
![Woman holds onto concrete wall and appears to be dizzy.](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2023/06/1200/675/iStock-1000229966.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Dehydration can impair cognitive function and physical performance, and can even lead to serious health issues. (iStock)
“While thirst is a natural mechanism for regulating fluid intake, it’s not always a reliable indicator of hydration status, especially in certain populations, such as older adults who may have diminished thirst sensations,” he said.
“It’s advisable to drink fluids regularly throughout the day, even if thirst isn’t felt.”
Studies have shown that waiting until you feel thirsty to drink may not be sufficient to prevent dehydration, he noted — “particularly in situations where fluid loss is high or when conditions predispose individuals to dehydration.”
“Therefore, it’s advisable to drink fluids regularly throughout the day, even if thirst isn’t felt.”
It is possible to drink too much water, however, Mazur warned.
Excessive water intake can lead to a condition called hyponatremia, where low sodium levels in the blood can be harmful.
“Listen to your body and find a balance that works for you,” he advised.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health.
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Health
What Happens If You Eat Eggs Every Day? Nutritionists Share the Benefits
![What Happens If You Eat Eggs Every Day? Nutritionists Share the Benefits What Happens If You Eat Eggs Every Day? Nutritionists Share the Benefits](https://www.womansworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/1-2-1.jpg)
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Health
Ask a doctor: ‘I swallowed a bug — now what should I do?'
![Ask a doctor: ‘I swallowed a bug — now what should I do?' Ask a doctor: ‘I swallowed a bug — now what should I do?'](https://static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/ask-doc-swallow-bug.jpg)
Most people have experienced that moment of discomfort when they realize a bug has wound up where it shouldn’t be — in their windpipe.
That includes Taylor Swift, who on more than one occasion has accidentally swallowed a bug while performing on stage in front of thousands of people.
It can be a startling and somewhat disgusting occurrence — but is this dangerous, or just a nuisance?
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Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a quadruple board-certified physician in California, shared with Fox News Digital the true impacts of accidentally swallowing a bug, and the best thing to do if it happens.
“Swallowing a bug can often happen accidentally when you’re eating or drinking outside, or if a bug flies into your mouth,” Dasgupta, who serves as chief medical advisor for Fortune Recommends, told Fox News Digital via email.
Dr. Raj Dasgupta, a quadruple board-certified physician in California, discussed the impact of accidentally swallowing a bug — and the best thing to do if it happens. (Sleepoplis)
“It can also happen if you’re talking or laughing outdoors. Sometimes it might even happen indoors if bugs are in your food or drink and you don’t realize it.”
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Swallowing a bug is usually not dangerous, Dasgupta noted.
“The stomach’s digestive acids usually break down the bug, and it is passed out of the body without causing harm,” he said.
![Ask a Doc - swallow bug](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/07/1200/675/ask-doc-swallow-bug.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
“Swallowing a bug can happen accidentally when you’re eating or drinking outside, or if a bug flies into your mouth,” the doctor told Fox News Digital. (iStock)
If the bug carries harmful bacteria or parasites, however, it could cause gastrointestinal issues or allergic reactions, according to the doctor.
The type of bug can make a difference, he said.
“Bugs like beetles or ants are less of a concern, but bugs that are known to spread diseases — such as mosquitoes — might be riskier.”
If you happen to swallow a bug, drinking some water can help wash it down, Dasgupta said.
![Taylor Swift points to the crowd in a sparkly pink outfit during the Eras Tour](https://a57.foxnews.com/static.foxnews.com/foxnews.com/content/uploads/2024/02/1200/675/b1fa4117-taylor-swift.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
Taylor Swift has announced the accidental swallowing of bugs, mid-concert, on more than one occasion. (Marcelo Endelli/TAS23/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management)
“If you start feeling sick, like abdominal pain, vomiting or nausea, keep an eye on your symptoms,” the doctor said.
If you have severe stomach pain, ongoing vomiting, trouble breathing, or swelling, rash or itching, Dasgupta said to see a doctor.
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“If you know the bug could have diseases or if you have health conditions that might complicate things, it’s a good idea to get checked out to be safe,” he added.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health
Some bugs — including grasshoppers, beetles, termites, mealworms and even stink bugs — are actually considered edible in certain countries, and are prepared and eaten as part of meals, according to WebMD’s website.
Health
“I’m a Dietitian, and Here’s Why an Overly Restrictive Diet Can Backfire”
![“I’m a Dietitian, and Here’s Why an Overly Restrictive Diet Can Backfire” “I’m a Dietitian, and Here’s Why an Overly Restrictive Diet Can Backfire”](https://www.womansworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Woman-eats-happily.png)
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