For those in a raw food diet, the best way to stay hydrated is to drink lots of water. Almost everyone probably knows that water is the healthiest drink of all. In fact, it is important in any type of diet that you are following. However, aside from water, there are also other drinks that raw foodists can enjoy without breaking the rules. 

People in a raw food diet can enjoy drinking smoothies and juices that are made from fresh ingredients. You just need to steer clear from powdered juices that you can usually purchase in supermarkets instead of opting for fresh fruits and vegetable juices.

If you are serious about getting into a raw food diet, we are here to help you come up with delicious and beneficial drinks. Today, we are giving you a list of the healthiest beverages you can add to your raw food diet. 

Orange Juice

Orange juice is probably the most classic beverage in this list, and it is a staple around the world. It is popular for its nutritional properties. It is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for skin health and iron absorption. Orange juice is also high in phenolic compounds, such as ferulic, chlorogenic, and cinnamic acids, which can help fight free radicals that damage cells. Aside from vitamin C, orange juice is also a good source of potassium, calcium, thiamin, and vitamin D if it is fortified. 

Cranberry Juice

Cranberry is a tangy juice that is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonols, anthocyanins, procyanidins, and vitamins C and E. These antioxidants can help protect cells from damage, prevent cardiovascular disease, and also promotes a healthy urinary tract. Cranberry is tart on its own, but you can add natural sweeteners or sweeter fruit juices to make it more delicious. If you are buying a ready to drink cranberry juice, make sure that you look for varieties that are 100% juice. 

Coconut Water

Coconut water is tropical water that has a controversial flavor. Some people love how it tastes like, while some hate it. But drinking coconut water can hydrate the body and provide a high amount of potassium, which is important in maintaining a healthy heartbeat and regulating blood pressure.

Kombucha

Kombucha is a very popular beverage for wellness junkies. It is a fizzy and fermented drink that is rich in probiotics, promoting healthy bacteria in the gut. These can aid in digestion, and as well as in the absorption of vitamins and minerals.

Lemon Juice

Lemons are usually used in garnishing. But they are also surprisingly very healthy and powerful when it comes to boosting the immune system. Stirring two tablespoons of lemon juice in a glass of water can add 14mg of vitamin C. If you do not like drinking water, then mixing some lemon juice to it can make it taste better, which is a good way to help you stay hydrated. 

Beet Juice

Beets are a great source of folic acid, nitrates, and magnesium. The nitrates are converted by the body into nitric oxide, which helps improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. Based on studies, drinking beet juice can help increase stamina during exercise. Beets are also a great source of betalains, which are pigments that give their red color. These pigments act as potent antioxidants that can prevent inflammation and the risk of heart disease. 

Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate juice is one of the healthiest beverages that you can add to your diet. It is a vibrant fruit juice that is rich in antioxidants that protect the cells from damage. It can also decrease inflammation, which can help relieve certain types of arthritis. This beverage is also rich in vitamin C, which can boost the immune system and fight off colds. 

Tomato Juice

Tomato juice is rich in vitamin C, which is a potent antioxidant that supports iron absorption. Aside from that, it also promotes skin and immune health. Tomato juice is a good source of lycopene, which is a carotenoid and antioxidant that provides the red color of tomatoes. This can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. However, keep in mind that tomato juice can be high in salt, which can increase blood pressure when you drink too much. 

Apple Juice

Apple juice is a good source of potassium, which is essential for nerve signaling and heart health. It may be low in vitamin C, but it is high in antioxidant compounds like chlorogenic acid and flavonoids, which can help neutralize cell-damaging free radicals. Cloudy apple juice has higher amounts of antioxidants compared to clear apple juice. 

Prune Juice

Prune juice is rich in B vitamins that are important in metabolism, red blood cell production, DNA, and skin, and eye health. It is also used as a remedy for constipation, especially for the elderly. In fact, prune juice’s fiber content appears to help soften stool and acts as a mild laxative. Aside from that, it is also a good source of vitamin C and phenolic compounds. Remember that prune juice is a natural source of sugar. Therefore, you need to limit your intake or dilute it with water. 

Acai Berry Juice

Acai berry juice is rich in different antioxidants, including ferulic acid, flavonoids, and chlorogenic acid. It is linked with a lower risk of heart disease and mental decline. Acai berries have more antioxidants compared to blueberries. These can help fight diseases and relieve pains from osteoarthritis. 

Grapefruit Juice

Grapefruit juice is also rich in antioxidants like naringin and vitamin C. However, it is important to know that grapefruit and its juice have effects with lots of medications, including antidepressants, cholesterol, and blood pressure medications, and blood thinners. It’s because the furanocoumarin compounds in grapefruit interact with the liver’s ability to process medication. Therefore, if you are taking any medications regularly, it is important to consult with your doctor first before drinking grapefruit juice. 

These are some of the healthiest beverages that you can add to your diet. They are excellent sources of nutrients, most especially antioxidants. We hope this list will help you choose the best beverages to incorporate in your raw food diet.