1. Sport Drinks

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These favorite summer drinks provide fuel for your muscles which is great if you’re exercising. But if you’re not, then steer clear! They contain salt (which can contribute to high blood pressure) as well as sugar and very often E-numbers.

2. Smoothies

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A smoothie is a favorite summer drink for many of us because it can contribute towards our five a day. But, they can be high in calories so don’t drink more than one smoothie a day. Try and make your own rather than get it out of a bottle, so you know what’s in it! Watch out for banana smoothies – they are surprisingly calorific.

3. Diet Cola

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Obviously this is better for you than the full sugar version but it does contain caffeine, so drinking it later in the day can give you sleep problems and drinking too much daily can lower your energy levels and make you feel drained.

4. Fruit Juice

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Orange juice in particular is a favorite summer drink for many people and one glass a day gives you all the Vitamin C you need. But, it also contains acids and natural sugars which can damage your teeth so don’t drink more than one glass a day.

5. Flavored Water

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As they contain sweeteners and preservatives, flavored waters are closer to soft drinks then they are to pure water. Drink them in moderation as they contain acid that can erode tooth enamel, and choose still varieties over fizzy ones.

6. Lemonade

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Lemonade is a favorite summer drink for many of us. Luckily, even the full sugar variety is low in calories but remember it is still bad for your teeth. A diet lemonade is a slightly better choice, although it’s still acidic and therefore can still damage your teeth.

7. Squash

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Squash never has more than 10% fruit juice in it so there’s nothing in there that’s particularly good for you. Most varieties contain preservatives, but if you choose one with no added sugar you can at least keep the calories down.

8. Juice Drinks

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These contain some fruit juice (although it can be as little as 5%) along with water, sweeteners and often sugar. Check the label because the calorie count can vary considerably across different brands. The preservatives in them aren’t harmful but avoid them if you want a natural, additive-free diet.

There are no hard and fast rules about how much you should drink on a hot day but aim for at least 8 glasses of water, more if you’re exercising. These 8 favorite summer drinks will contribute towards your fluid intake, as will tea and coffee, but always drink them in moderation, and try to mostly drink water. Also remember that alcoholic drinks are dehydrating. What’s your favorite summer drink?

Top Photo Credit: Tom Robbrecht