Table 1.
Summary of studies on non-alcoholic beverages with potential benefits/concerns regarding health.
| Beverage Category | Recommended Daily Intake * (fl oz) | Potential Benefit (s) | Concern (s) | References |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caloric Soft Drinks | 0–8 | None | Excess calorie consumption leading to obesity, T2DM risk, CVD risk, decreased bone density | 1, 10–27 |
| Noncaloric Soft Drinks | 0–16 | Fewer calories | Decreased satiety, increased calorie uptake, T2DM risk | 1, 30–47 |
| Coffee and Tea | 0–40 | Low to no calorie, decreased T2DM risk, lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels (tea) | Lung cancer risk (coffee), elevated cholesterol levels (coffee), decreased birth weight | 1, 48–57 |
| Energy Drinks | 0–8 | Increased brain function, memory, reaction time | Elevated heart rate, increased blood pressure, excess consumption may lead to caffeine related deaths or seizures | 1, 59–68 |
| Sports Drinks | 0–16 | Improved performance, plasma maintenance, beneficial for glycogen deficient individuals | Caloric, not always necessary | 1, 69–71 |
| Kombucha | 0–16 | Antimicrobial and antifungal properties, increased antioxidant activity, low calorie | Caloric-excess consumption could lead to weight gain | 1, 72–78 |
| Sparkling Water | 20–50 | Hydrates as well as water, better electrolyte levels, decreased intestinal distress, increased fullness, higher satiety levels | Increased risk of overactive bladder, stress incontinence | 1, 79–89 |
* Recommended daily intake is not as per American Society of Nutrition guidelines but rather as per researchers used doses; T2DM: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus; CVD: Cardiovascular disease.