To Drink or Not To Drink…And, what should we be drinking?
Submitted by Dr. Gwenn Is In
On Good Morning America today, health urban legends was the round table discussion with Dr. Tim and it didn’t take long for my old favorite to come up: we all must drink 8 glasses of water a day. Clearly urban legend which is supported by a recent study. During the chatter about this myth, one of the anchors asked: “So, what should we be drinking?” Great question.
I think it is safe to say that everything in moderation is good for us but studies lately are uncovering some surprising health benefits of some old favorites.
For example, today I learned that coffee may be good for the brain! According to the BBC, research from the University of North Dakota found that caffeine may protect the blood brain barrier from damage. The good news from the study was the dose was only 1 cup o’jo! The bad news was that the study was done on rabbits…so, perhaps we need a bit more research but this is very interesting for sure. And, good news for those of us addicted to the bean!
Wine and tea always seem to make the news and today was no exception. Science Daily reported today that both of these beverages may be helpful in controlling Type 2 Diabetes. What is cool is that the same element in these beverages that may be at play for keeping blood sugar stable, an antioxidant called polyphenolics, has also been shown to help keep blood pressure under control and may be protective against heart disease. More studies need to be done but this is another very promising discovery!
As for our old friend water, we may not need as much water as we thought, but we still need water for our bodies to function. How much? Your body will know. Remember, we all come with built in water detection centers and with a very special and familiar alarm - thirst!
So, what should you drink? Whatever you want to - just in moderation for the more tasty and adult beverages on the list!
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