It’s a Woman’s World: Dieting? Watch what you drink

When it comes to weight loss, most women try to reduce their calorie intake by eating healthier foods. If you’re sticking to a low-calorie diet, but just can’t seem to drop the pounds, it’s time to look at what you’re drinking.

Coffees, sodas and even seemingly healthy smoothies can ruin your diet. These calorie-laden drinks can add hundreds of calories a day to your diet. Let’s look at some healthy drink alternatives, with help from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

First, consider downsizing your morning coffee. A 16-ounce cafe latte made with whole milk has 265 calories. If you order a 12-ounce coffee made with fat-free milk instead, you’ll save 140 calories.

On a similar note, always opt for a diet drink. While water is always your best option, if you’re craving a soda, ordering a diet soft drink can save 200 calories.

Milk provides vitamins and other nutrients your body needs, but it also contains calories. Choose low-fat or fat-free milk — you’ll still get milk’s benefits without the extra calories.

So, next time you’re at the coffee shop, get back to basics. Order a small coffee with fat-free milk, and skip the flavored syrups and whipped cream. Black coffee or coffee with fat-free milk and artificial sweetener is your healthiest option.

When you’re ordering a post-workout smoothie, ask to see the nutrition information. Choose the lowest-calorie smoothie, and ask that it be prepared without added sugar.

Finally, choose water whenever you can. Spice up your water by adding slices of lemon, lime or watermelon, or drink sparkling water. You can even add a splash of 100-percent fruit juice to sparkling water to make a refreshing, low-calorie drink.

With these tips, you can eliminate unnecessary calories from your drinks — and save those calories for that food indulgence every now and then.