We’ve all been there: stopping at a gas station during a long road trip or after a tough workout, looking for a refreshing drink to quench our thirst, and facing a wall of sugary sodas and artificial energy drinks. But fear not! There are healthier options waiting to be discovered. In this blog post, we’ll unveil the top 21 healthy drinks to grab at gas stations, a comprehensive list that will fuel your body and mind without compromising your health.
Short Summary
-
Hydrate with water for ultimate success.
-
Enjoy the healthier alternative of sparkling and flavored waters, coconut water, sports drinks and more!
-
Get your daily dose of nutrients from organic & natural drink options like smoothies, cold pressed juices & plant based energy drinks.
Water: The Ultimate Hydration Choice
Water is the smartest choice for keeping your body hydrated at most gas stations. It’s crucial for optimal health and peak athletic performance, as staying hydrated is critical for achieving success on the field. When looking for the best gas station, prioritize those that offer a variety of healthy hydration options.
So, next time you find yourself at a gas station, remember that the simplest gas station drinks can be the most beneficial for your health and energy levels.
Sparkling and Flavored Waters
If you’re looking for a refreshing alternative to plain water, sparkling and flavored waters can be a delightful choice. Sparkling water, with its invigorating fizz, can be a healthier alternative to sugary drinks. However, be cautious of added sugars and artificial ingredients when selecting flavored waters.
Opt for options that use natural flavorings or are infused with fresh fruit for a truly invigorating experience, rather than those containing artificial flavors. This way, you can enjoy the excitement of a fizzy drink without compromising your health.
Coconut Water: A Natural Electrolyte Source
Coconut water is a refreshing and natural source of electrolytes, making it a healthier alternative to a candy bar when you need a quick energy boost. Rich in potassium and sodium, it can be a better option than dark chocolate for those looking to replenish electrolytes.
With just 64 mg/cup of sodium in coconut water, it may not be ideal for intense exercise due to its low sodium content. Nevertheless, it can still be a great way to fuel up before a game or help with recovery after, especially when paired with carbohydrates and protein for optimal recovery.
Sports Drinks: Fueling Performance
Sports drinks can provide athletes with energy and electrolytes, helping to maximize performance. These drinks, including the popular sports drink, are specially crafted to include carbohydrates, sodium, and a minimal amount of potassium, which can help meet carbohydrate requirements and replenish electrolytes lost during intense exercise lasting more than an hour.
It’s important to choose sports drinks with the right carbohydrate and sodium levels for your needs. Keep in mind that energy drinks may not be the best choice for athletes, as the combination of ingredients could have an amplified effect in the body, potentially leading to health issues.
Milk and Chocolate Milk: Nutrient-Rich Options
Milk and chocolate milk are nutrient-rich options for athletes, offering an abundance of protein, vitamins, and minerals to help you recover and maintain overall health.
Milk provides 13 essential nutrients, including:
-
8 grams of complete protein per cup
-
Calcium
-
Vitamin D
-
B vitamins
-
Vitamin A
-
Phosphorus
Besides milk, 100% fruit juice can also provide athletes with vital vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to boost nutrient intake and hydration levels. By consuming 100% fruit juice in moderation, you can reap the nutritional benefits and support your athletic performance.
100% Fruit Juice: A Sweet and Nutritious Treat
100% fruit juice is a delicious and nourishing choice crafted from the juice of fresh fruits. Drinking 100% fruit juice can provide you with essential nutrients such as vitamin C and potassium, which can help keep you energized and healthy.
However, 100% fruit juice can be high in sugar and calories, so it’s important to consider that when making a choice. Opting for whole, fresh fruit is a great way to get the same nutrients plus some extra fiber and phytonutrients. Remember to savor 100% fruit juice in moderation due to its high sugar content for a balanced diet.
Vegetable Juice: Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
Vegetable juice is an excellent way to get a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants quickly and easily. It can help to reduce inflammation and promote overall health and immunity. Vegetable juices are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that can help you stay healthy and energized.
When choosing a vegetable juice, it is important to consider sodium levels and added sugars or artificial additives. Choose wisely to benefit your health. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of vegetable juice without the drawbacks of excessive sodium or sugar.
Herbal and Green Tea: Antioxidant Powerhouses
Herbal and green teas, including those with green tea extract, are antioxidant-rich hydration options without excess calories or sugar. Herbal tea offers an array of impressive health benefits, such as strengthening the immune system, combating inflammation, promoting heart health, aiding digestion, and supplying antioxidants.
Green tea is incredibly rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation, improve heart health, and give your immune system a real boost.
The main difference between herbal and green tea is their source: herbal teas are crafted from herbs, spices, and other plants, while green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free, while green tea has a delightful caffeine content for those seeking a gentler stimulant.
Protein Shakes: Muscle Recovery on the Go
Protein shakes offer a convenient way for athletes to support muscle recovery while on the go. They can be an excellent choice for youth athletes aiming to enhance their athletic performance and speed up recovery. To get the most out of your protein shake, be sure to choose a high-quality, low-sugar option.
It’s important to look for protein powders that contain at least 20 grams of protein per serving. The source should be high-quality like whey or plant-based proteins. This way, you can be sure you’re getting the nutrition you need to support your athletic performance and recovery.
Dairy-Free Milk Alternatives
Dairy-free milk alternatives, such as almond or soy milk, can provide a lactose-free option for those with dietary restrictions or preferences. These alternatives can offer lower calories and fat counts, plus more water content. Plus, they may be fortified with vitamins and other beneficial nutrients.
Just be aware of their potential lower levels of protein and other nutrients compared to cow’s milk.
Kombucha: A Gut-Healthy Option
Kombucha is a fermented tea drink that can support gut health. It’s an amazing source of probiotics, antioxidants, and polyphenols that can help optimize gut health, fortify the immune system, and safeguard the body from damage. However, be cautious of added sugars and alcohol content in some products.
When selecting a kombucha, opt for products that are low in sugar, alcohol, and caffeine. Furthermore, make sure to look for organic products that are made with natural ingredients for a healthier choice.
Cold-Pressed Juices: Nutrient-Dense Refreshments
Cold-pressed juices offer nutrient-dense refreshments, made from 100% organically cultivated fresh fruit and raw vegetables, which are packed with even more nutrients than commercially grown foods. Enjoying cold-pressed juice every day is a great way to nourish your body with all the essential nutrients from fruits and vegetables.
However, cold-pressed juices can be high in sugar and calories, so it’s important to consume them in moderation. Be sure to check the labels of cold-pressed juices to ensure that they are made with natural ingredients and do not contain any added sugars.
Unsweetened Iced Tea: A Calorie-Free Beverage
Unsweetened iced tea is an excellent calorie-free beverage option that can provide both hydration and delicious flavor without any added sugars. So, if you’re looking for a refreshing drink that won’t add extra calories to your diet, unsweetened iced tea might be the perfect choice for you.
It is a great way to enjoy a tasty beverage without having to worry about the added calories.
Low-Calorie Energy Drinks
Low-calorie energy drinks can provide a great energy boost without the additional calories, and may even contain vitamins and minerals. It is always better to use tdee (total daily energy expenditure) calculator to lose weight or consult a medical expert to stay healthy. Also, be aware of the potential side effects such as jitteriness, anxiety, and a laxative effect.
When selecting a low-calorie energy drink, opt for one that has natural ingredients and is low in sugar and caffeine. Make sure to check the nutrition label to ensure it contains beneficial vitamins and minerals, and avoid drinking them on an empty stomach for optimal health.
Smoothies: A Fruity Fix
Smoothies made with real fruit and minimal added sugar can be a healthy snack and refreshing option at gas stations. They offer a convenient way to increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, providing:
-
Energy
-
Protein
-
Fiber
-
Essential nutrients
To make the most nutritious smoothie choices, opt for smoothies made with fresh fruit and little to no added sugar. Steer clear of smoothies with syrups, artificial sweeteners, or other unhealthy additives for the best possible nutrition.
Electrolyte Water: Enhanced Hydration
Electrolyte water offers enhanced hydration benefits, particularly for athletes or those engaging in physical activity. It can help you:
-
Stay hydrated
-
Regulate your body’s fluid balance
-
Support your nervous system
-
Maintain muscle function
Drinking electrolyte water daily can ensure you’re replacing any minerals lost through sweating or illness.
Replenishing fluids and electrolytes lost through sweating with electrolyte water can help you stay hydrated and avoid dehydration. So, whether you’re an athlete or just someone who wants to stay properly hydrated, electrolyte water is a great choice.
Low-Sodium Tomato Juice
Low-sodium tomato juice provides a healthier alternative to traditional vegetable juices, with less salt and a rich source of vitamins and minerals. It’s packed with essential nutrients like vitamin C, B vitamins, and potassium, and is a great source of antioxidants, like lycopene.
Research suggests that drinking tomato juice regularly can be beneficial for:
-
Cardiovascular health
-
Digestion
-
Lowering blood pressure
So, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional vegetable juices, which may have zero nutritional value, low-sodium tomato juice might be just the ticket.
Sugar-Free Soda Alternatives
Sugar-free soda alternatives can offer a low-calorie option for those seeking a fizzy drink without the added sugars. These alternatives may contain artificial sweeteners, which can provide an alternative to sugar while still allowing you to enjoy the same flavor. Additionally, some sugar-free sodas may contain caffeine, which can provide a boost of energy.
When selecting a sugar-free soda alternative, be sure to read the label and choose a product with low levels of caffeine and sugar for a healthier option. This way, you can enjoy the excitement of a fizzy drink without compromising your health.
Caffeine-Free Beverages
If you’re seeking a drink without the stimulating effects of caffeine, caffeine-free beverages such as herbal teas or flavored waters can provide hydration and flavor. These options are perfect for those who want to avoid caffeine while still enjoying a refreshing and flavorful drink.
So next time you’re at a gas station, consider trying a caffeine-free beverage for a change of pace.
Organic and Natural Drink Options
Organic and natural drink options can provide healthier alternatives to conventional beverages, with fewer artificial ingredients and additives.
These drinks are made from 100% organic ingredients, including organic stevia leaf extract, with no artificial additives or preservatives, and are packed with fresh fruits and vegetables, free from pesticides, hormones, and other chemicals. Delicious and healthy organic and natural drink options include:
-
Organic juices
-
Smoothies
-
Herbal teas
-
Kombucha
-
Cold-pressed juices
-
Plant-based energy drinks
By choosing organic and natural drinks, you can enjoy the benefits of fewer artificial ingredients and additives, and support your overall health.
Plant-Based Energy Drinks
Plant-based energy drinks offer a more natural source of energy and focus. They often contain healthy adaptogenic herbs and superfoods that can help boost your immune system and aid in the treatment of ailments such as:
-
obesity
-
diabetes
-
heart failure
-
cardiovascular disease
However, be cautious of caffeine and sugar content in some products.
When selecting a plant-based energy drink, opt for one that is low in sugar and caffeine, and contains natural ingredients like adaptogenic herbs and superfoods. By doing so, you can enjoy a more natural energy boost without the potential drawbacks of traditional energy drinks.
Summary
There are numerous healthy drink options available at gas stations, from water and electrolyte drinks to organic smoothies and plant-based energy drinks. By making informed choices and considering factors such as sugar content, caffeine levels, and artificial ingredients, you can enjoy refreshing and nourishing beverages that support your health and well-being on the go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the healthiest gas station drink?
When it comes to choosing a healthy drink from the gas station, water is always the best option. If you’re looking for something more flavorful, unsweetened iced tea or seltzer water with a splash of 100% fruit juice are both great options.
What are the top 5 healthiest drinks?
Try some of the healthiest drinks around with smoothies, green tea, milk, sparkling water, coffee, green juice, and fruit juice. Boost your immunity with a REBBL protein shake or opt for a natural low-calorie soda like OLIPOP Grape Soda. Enjoy some yuzu tea with Minna Peach Yuzu Green Tea or a hard seltzer like Ranch Rider Spirits, or Ranch Water.
Are sports drinks a good choice for athletes?
Sports drinks can provide athletes with energy and electrolytes, so they can be a good choice depending on carbohydrates and sodium levels. However, it is important to read the nutrition label to make sure the drink is not too high in sugar or sodium. Additionally, it is important to consider the type of activity and the duration of the activity when deciding.
Can cold-pressed juices help with weight loss?
Cold-pressed juices can support overall health, but moderation is key to help with weight loss – as they are high in sugar and calories.
However, when consumed in moderation, cold-pressed juices can be a great addition to a healthy diet. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system and provide essential nutrients. Additionally, additional information is provided below.
Are plant-based energy drinks a healthier alternative to traditional energy drinks?
Plant-based energy drinks offer a more natural source of energy than traditional energy drinks, but one should be mindful of the caffeine and sugar content they contain.
These drinks can provide a boost of energy, but it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of consuming too much caffeine or sugar. It is best to consume these drinks in moderation and to be aware of the ingredients they contain.