6 Antioxidant-Packed Beverages To Keep You Hydrated & Cool In Scorching Heat, According To Doctors: Matcha Green Tea & More

When we talk about antioxidant beverages, we’re referring to drinks that contain antioxidants, which can help neutralize free radicals in the body and help prevent damage on a cellular level. These beverages may help reduce inflammation , which is the cause of a number of negative effects on the body, including aches, pains, and even skin conditions like psoriasis. These aren’t miracle tonics, of course (if only those existed), but when you make these a part of your regular diet, they can promote better health and well-being.

And let’s not forget their other purpose: they provide an abundance of hydration to support your immune system, carry nutrients and oxygen to cells, and keep your skin glowing and healthy. The next time you reach for a delicious cold (or warm) drink, consider one of these six antioxidant-packed beverages.

Green Tea

A cup of green tea provides catechins, one specifically that’s called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). These help reduce oxidative stress in the body and boost your metabolism, as well. People who regularly consume green tea are shown to experience lower LDL cholesterol levels and improved heart health — it can even improve your attention, memory, and mood.

Black Tea

Another tea on our list of antioxidant-packed goodies, black tea contains polyphenols and is a good source of theaflavins and thearubigins, which can help neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. It’s also a metabolism booster with caffeine and L-theanine that can boost your brain health and make you more alert and attentive.

Kombucha

For a deliciously sweet, yet tart treat try fizzy and hydrating kombucha. This fermented beverage contains both antioxidants and probiotics that promote good gut health. It has B vitamins and has been shown to support digestion, weight management, and healthier skin.

Coconut Water

Coconut water has a high electrolyte content that includes potassium, sodium, and magnesium, all of which help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes to keep your body balanced. It also has a mild laxative effect and is great for your digestive system. The next time you’re exhausted and thirsty after a hard workout, try swapping plain water for coconut water for that added boost of hydration.

Matcha Green Tea

We’re not finished celebrating teas just yet. Matcha green tea is a powdered form of green tea that is rich in catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and can neutralize free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, support a faster metabolism, and even give you a more relaxed sense of well-being. And, unlike plain green tea, this powder is versatile and can be used to make iced matcha green tea beverages or added to smoothies and other healthy recipes.

Beet Juice

It may seem more unorthodox than the other beverages on this list, but beet juice is a fantastic addition to your diet. It is a good source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and skin by helping to create new, healthy collagen. It also contains fiber to boost digestion, and betalains that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can support your liver. If you aren’t sure about the taste on its own, try adding beet juice to a green smoothie — its sweet flavor is easy to get used to drinking.