Stay Refreshed without the Added Calories

Alcoholic beverages seem like the to go on a hot day at your buddies BBQ but many of our refreshing summer cocktails are loaded with sugar so be aware that there is more than one way to build a "beer belly"!

A Pina Colada contains 31 grams of sugar. That's near the recommended daily MAXIMUM allowance of sugar in ONE drink! According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the maximum amount of added sugars you should eat in a day are:

• Men: 150 calories per day (37.5 grams or 9 teaspoons)

• Women: 100 calories per day (25 grams or 6 teaspoons)

I'm not saying you should forego all alcoholic beverages. What is life if we can't enjoy some of the things we love? The point here is to simply make you aware that there are "hidden" sugars in most alcoholic beverages and they're easily overlooked or dismissed. Everything in moderation right!!

Here's an alternative that WON'T leave you feeling parched the next time your enjoying time in the heat with friends and family. Try a flavored sparkling water or add a piece of lemon to your glass of water. Infused water has become very popular in the last few years. There's literally more combinations of flavors than any one person could ever try and there's sure to be one you'll enjoy!