(Page 2 of 3)
The 5 food groups
Drinks
Are you Weight Wise?

Drinks: Making sure you drink enough fluids is just as important for good health as eating well.

Replacing fluid on a daily basis is vital, and to do this most people need to drink a minimum of 1.5 - 2 litres (6-8 glasses) each day. Filling up on fluids helps to reduce your appetite.

Be drink wise!

• Water is the best and cheapest drink, so drink it plain, with ice and lemon or flavour with a low calorie squash or fruit juice
• Tea and coffee (without sugar)
• Sugar-free soft drinks, flavoured waters or squashes
• Flavoured waters can make a pleasant change (usually contain only a small amount of sugar, but check the label)
• Herbal and fruit teas
• Low fat milk

Sweetened drinks, such as fruit squashes and fizzy drinks are high in sugar, so when you're cutting calories, opt for low calorie or 'diet' choices.

Alcohol
It's OK to enjoy a drink or two as part of your healthy eating plan, but remember alcohol is high in calories (approx. 200 kcals for a pint of beer; 120 kcals for a glass of wine) and, if taken in excess is harmful to your health.

'Sensible' daily limits are:

• For women: 2-3 units
• For men: 3-4 units

A 'unit' is:

• Half a pint of ordinary bitter, lager or cider
• 1 small glass of red or white wine (100-125ml)
• 1 small pub measure of spirits (25ml)
• 1 small glass of sherry (50ml)

Beware of:

• 'Alcopops'; strong beers, lagers and cocktails, as these are often higher in alcohol and calories than standard drinks.
• Wide variation in pub measures e.g. a large glass of wine can measure up to 250mls (so higher in both alcohol and calories!)

For your waistline, keep well below the sensible limits and save alcohol for special occasions. For more information on alcohol, see www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

<previous  next>

page 2 of 3