13 Drinks to Lose Weight by Reducing Appetite and Bloating

*PR: Gifted packet of coffee.

Sian Victoria © - Drinking Skinny Coffee Club

Guide to Weight Loss Drinks: Best Choices to Slim Down

Reading through all the weight loss advice out there can be a bit much. With so many methods floating around, one simple yet often ignored idea is to look at what you drink. So, this guide is all about healthy drinks that can help you lose some weight by revving up your metabolism, curbing those cravings, and offering lighter alternatives to those tasty yet high-calorie treats.

Whether you prefer hot teas, refreshing waters, or healthy juices, you’ll find something here that's super easy to add to your routine. When adding these drinks to your lifestyle and pairing them with mindful eating and some exercise, you can create a really supportive atmosphere for reaching your weight loss goals.

I started thinking about weight loss drinks after I got a free sample of the popular Skinny Coffee Club to try out, so I’ll be sharing my thoughts on my 28-day experience with it and whether it was worth it.

1. Green Tea

Green tea is loaded with these awesome catechins, which are a type of antioxidant, and this can help you shed some pounds and rev up your metabolism. It’s a nice drink to relax with, whether you prefer it hot or cold. Unlike many other drinks, it has natural compounds that might help keep your weight in check.

Plus, the bit of caffeine in green tea gives you a light energy lift to help you stay active and focused all day. Drinking it regularly comes with some great health perks, like better heart health and a lower risk of chronic diseases. If you want to mix it up a bit, try adding a slice of lemon or a drizzle of honey. Adding green tea to your everyday habits can be both tasty and good for you.

2. Green Coffee

Green coffee is just unroasted coffee beans, and it's a pretty interesting drink because it’s loaded with chlorogenic acid. This stuff might actually help with weight management by changing how your body absorbs carbs and keeping your blood sugar in check.

Unlike regular coffee, green coffee retains all its natural goodness since it doesn’t go through the roasting process, making it a solid choice for anyone looking to manage their weight. Some research even suggests that chlorogenic acid could help you burn fat for energy.

When you pair it with a balanced diet, green coffee can be a great buddy in your weight loss journey. You can enjoy it hot or cold, whatever you prefer; other than green, unroasted Arabica beans, it’s available in convenient forms like capsules and powders.

3. Black Coffee

Black coffee is a great low-cal drink if you’re looking to shed some pounds, especially when you skip the sugar and cream. It has caffeine, which can help kickstart your metabolism by boosting thermogenesis, which is basically your body’s way of burning calories. Plus, it can really curb those snack cravings.

One of the best things about black coffee is how easy it is to make and enjoy anytime. If you're into bold flavours, using high-quality coffee beans can really up your coffee game. And don’t forget, it's packed with antioxidants that are good for your health.

Just remember to keep it moderate. Too much can make you feel jittery, speed up your heart rate, or mess with your sleep. Sticking to no more than 3-4 cups a day is a good rule of thumb to avoid those issues.

Bringing black coffee into your daily routine can be a great way to kickstart your energy and sharpen your focus, while potentially helping with weight loss. It can be a lot easier when you combine it with eating healthy and some exercise for the best results.

4. Water

Obviously, water is super important if you’re looking to lose weight. Being well-hydrated helps your body work at its best, which is key for digestion and soaking up nutrients. One cool thing about water is that it can help you feel full, which means you might eat less. Drinking a glass before meals can actually lead to eating fewer calories because it fills you up a bit. Plus, water helps flush out waste and toxins, giving your weight loss a boost.

Another plus is that it keeps your energy up throughout the day. Sometimes when you think you’re hungry, it’s really just your body telling you it needs more water. When drinking enough, you can skip those extra snacks and keep your metabolism running smoothly.

And let’s be real, unlike sugary drinks that sneak in extra calories, water is totally calorie-free and good for your overall health. If plain water gets boring, add a fruit infuser attachment or toss in a slice of cucumber or some mint leaves to spice it up!

Sian Victoria © - Drinking Skinny Coffee Club

5. Apple Cider Vinegar Drink

Apple cider vinegar has become super popular for its potential health benefits, especially for weight loss. Drinking a mix of water and apple cider vinegar before meals might help you feel fuller, which could mean you eat fewer calories overall.

The acetic acid present in vinegar is thought to assist in regulating appetite and give your metabolism a little boost. Plus, it might keep your blood sugar levels in check, which is really helpful if you're trying to manage your weight.

Adding apple cider vinegar into your diet is pretty simple: just mix one or two tablespoons with a glass of water and drink it before your main meals. It’s a good idea to start with a smaller amount to see how your body handles it, since it can be a bit strong for some people.

If you want to improve the taste, adding a bit of honey, agave syrup, or a splash of lemon juice works great. Just keep in mind that you shouldn't drink apple cider vinegar straight up because its acidity can be hard on your tooth enamel and digestive system.

Over time, you might find that this tangy drink becomes a helpful part of your weight loss journey, working alongside other healthy habits like eating well and staying active.

6. Kombucha

Kombucha is a trendy fermented tea drink that's been making waves in the health scene, especially for its potential weight loss perks. It’s created by fermenting sweet tea with a cool mix of bacteria and yeast known as SCOBY. This drink is packed with probiotics, which are great for your gut and digestion.

Having a healthy gut is super important for soaking up nutrients and keeping your metabolism on point. Plus, kombucha has things like acetic acid and polyphenols that can support fat loss. With its fizzy vibe and tangy flavour, kombucha makes a great swap for sugary sodas and other high-calorie drinks.

Getting your hands on some kombucha can help you cut down on calories while quenching your thirst and potentially reducing cravings. Just remember to go for flavours that are low in added sugars to really reap the benefits. There are so many flavours out there, so you’re sure to find one you love while working towards your weight loss goals. When I first tried it, I wasn't keen, but the vinegar-fizzy like taste soon grows on you, which is fitting since it's bacteria!

7. Vegetable Juice

Vegetable juice is a great way to load up on essential vitamins and minerals without piling on extra calories or relying on supplements. Making your own juice means you can skip the added sugars and preservatives often found in store-bought options, making it a much healthier choice that helps with your weight loss goals, but still lets you enjoy the process while nourishing your body.

Mixing up some veggies like spinach, kale, cucumber, and celery makes for an awesome, refreshing drink that's packed with fibre to help with digestion and keep you feeling full. Throw in a bit of fruit, like an apple or a carrot, to add a touch of sweetness without loading on too many calories.

It's a great way to sneak in more nutrients, especially if you’re not getting enough veggies during meals. The vitamins and minerals from these veggies can really give your health, energy, and immune system a boost.

For an extra health kick, try adding spices like turmeric or ginger. They taste great and come with their own perks, like helping fight inflammation. Just remember to drink your veggie juice fresh to get the most out of those nutrients and enjoy all the benefits right away!

8. Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a tasty and calming drink that can easily fit into your productive morning routine, especially if you're looking to shed some pounds. It helps with digestion, which is key for absorbing nutrients and keeping your metabolism running smoothly. The natural stuff in ginger, like gingerol and shogaol, might even give your metabolism a little boost and help you burn extra calories.

Plus, ginger tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit your overall health. Its mildly spicy kick can also help to curb your hunger, which makes it simpler to say no to cravings, and therefore you get to avoid overeating.

Making ginger tea is super simple: just steep some fresh ginger slices or a bit of ginger powder in hot water for a few minutes. If you want to jazz it up a bit, add a splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of honey. You can sip it hot or cold, so it’s great any time of the year.

Drinking ginger tea every day can really boost your diet and help give your weight loss journey a little lift while giving you a cosy and delicious drink to enjoy, whether you start your day with it or use it as a pick-me-up in the afternoon.

9. Protein Shakes

Protein shakes are a trendy way to get more protein in your diet, which is important for feeling full and keeping your muscles while you're working on losing weight. They’re especially awesome after workouts because they help your muscles recover and grow, which can really fire up your metabolism and help you burn fat.

Just make sure to grab low-calorie, high-quality protein powders without added sugars or random stuff. Whey protein is a favourite since it's made from milk and has a complete set of amino acids, but plant-based options like pea or hemp protein are awesome choices for those like me who are vegan or lactose intolerant.

When you’re making your protein shake, try mixing it with water, almond milk, or another low-cal drink to keep it light. Throwing in a handful of spinach or some berries can add a nutritional boost without adding too many calories. You can customise your shakes to suit your taste and diet, which makes them super flexible for your weight loss plan. Whether you use them as a meal replacement or just a quick snack, they’re great for curbing your hunger and supporting your weight loss journey.

10. Black Tea

Black tea is a bold and tasty drink that might help with weight loss. Unlike green tea, black tea is fermented, which gives it a unique flavour and more caffeine. That caffeine boost can kick up your metabolism a bit, helping you burn calories.

There are also polyphenols like theaflavins in black tea that could help break down fat and keep it from sticking around in your body. Plus, these compounds are good for your gut health, which is super important for digestion and absorbing nutrients.

A cup of black tea is a popular British brew and can be a comforting little self-care ritual, whether you like it hot or iced. If you want to switch things up, you can mix it with spices like cinnamon or add a splash of milk.

Unlike sugary drinks, black tea is a low-calorie choice you can enjoy any time of the day. It’s a flexible drink that can easily fit into your routine, giving you both flavour and some potential health perks. Just remember to keep an eye on how much you drink so you don’t overload on caffeine, which could make you feel jittery or mess with your sleep.

11. Lemon Water

Lemon water is a refreshing drink that’s more than just tasty. The natural acidity of lemon can help with digestion and detoxifying your body by giving your liver a bit of a boost. Plus, all that vitamin C in lemons is great for your immune system and keeps your skin looking good.

Starting your day with a glass of lemon water can jumpstart your metabolism and assist you in remaining hydrated. It’s also a fun way to jazz up plain water, making it easier to drink more and skip the sugary drinks.

With a squeezer or by hand, extract the juice from half a lemon into a glass of cold or warm water, and if you want, throw in some mint leaves or a sprinkling of cayenne pepper for extra flavour. Adding lemon water paired with hydrating cucumber can be a super easy and enjoyable addition to your daily routine, and it’s a nice boost to look after yourself and drop those extra pounds.

12. Coconut Water

Coconut water is a wonderfully exotic way to stay hydrated and is loaded with important electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and sodium. These help keep your fluids balanced, making it perfect for rehydrating after a workout. Unlike those sugary sports drinks, coconut water is a refreshing, low-calorie choice that won’t derail your weight loss efforts with extra additives. It’s naturally sweet, which can help curb your cravings for sugary drinks, keeping you on track with your diet.

While it does have some natural sugars, the calories are pretty low, so it’s definitely a better option than many store-bought drinks. Plus, the fibre in coconut water can help with digestion, which is great for overall gut health and can even prevent bloating. This makes it a solid pick if you're looking to slim down while staying hydrated.

You can sip on coconut water by itself or use it as a smoothie base for a tropical vibe without the extra sugar. It's easy to find at supermarkets and health stores, usually sold in convenient packaging. Just make sure to grab the unsweetened kind to avoid any added sugars that could mess with your weight loss goals. Whether you enjoy it straight from the coconut or from a carton, coconut water is a tasty and natural way to help with your hydration and weight loss goals.

Sian Victoria © - Skinny Coffee Club

13. Herbal Tea

My pantry is packed with herbal teas like peppermint, chamomile, and rooibos, which are great choices if you want something caffeine-free that can help with your weight loss. Peppermint tea is especially good at keeping your appetite in check, which can make it easier to deal with cravings and cut back on calories.

Chamomile tea is all about relaxation, helping to reduce stress that often leads to overeating. Meanwhile, rooibos is packed with antioxidants and might even help with fat metabolism, giving you an extra boost for shedding those extra pounds.

These teas are also a fantastic way to stay hydrated without piling on calories or sugar. You can enjoy them hot or iced, so they fit any season. To make one, just steep your favourite herbal blend in hot water for a few minutes to let the flavours shine through. If you fancy it, you can add a slice of lemon or a little honey, but it's best to keep the sweet stuff to a minimum to stay low-cal.

Whether you’re looking for something refreshing to perk you up or a soothing drink to wind down at night, herbal teas are a tasty and healthy way to support your weight loss goals.

28-Day Skinny Coffee Club Review

Until the last few years, I had never been a big coffee or tea drinker, but I started drinking green tea regularly about six years ago, drawn by its many well-known health benefits. I was then introduced to Nescafe Green Blend coffee by my mom after we read numerous weight loss transformation stories from people who had started drinking it. All the women in my family began drinking it three times a day, and I can honestly say it really helped us lose weight.

That was until Nescafé randomly stopped selling it in all the supermarkets in the UK (but not abroad). We were all so disappointed; not only did it help us lose inches, but it was also the best instant coffee I’ve had and genuinely enjoyed, especially considering I had never been a coffee drinker before. I managed to buy a case of six from Amazon before it became difficult to find in the UK unless you wanted to pay exorbitant prices on eBay to get it from a select few countries.

Surprisingly, I spotted it in a supermarket in Santorini, and I can’t explain how excited I was. Unfortunately, I didn’t have my card or enough euros on me at the time to buy all the Nescafe Green Blend on the shelf. I told myself I would return before my holiday ended to buy a lot of it, but to my frustration, it was all gone by the time I went back. I even had a challenging conversation with a Greek woman who worked there, asking if they had any in the back, but there were none. I had promised my mom, sister, and auntie that I would bring some back for them, so I was quite disappointed.

Recently, Holland & Barrett contacted me to offer a complimentary 28-day supply of the Skinny Coffee Club. For those who know, I’m always visiting the store to stock up on health and beauty products. So, I was really looking forward to trying it out and was pleased that a favourite brand of mine got in touch. One of the many superfood ingredients in it is green coffee, and I thought my green coffee fix was finally solved.

The Skinny Coffee contains high-quality green coffee and tea extracts, which are known to naturally boost metabolism. It also includes Garcinia Cambogia, an ingredient recognised for its appetite-reducing properties. This coffee blend is packed with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and protein, containing just six calories per serving. Notably, it does not contain senna or laxatives. The brand has quickly gained popularity on social media, with many users claiming it to be their secret for weight loss.

As a graduate in marketing, advertising, and public relations, I can easily spot marketing gimmicks and don't get easily swayed by bold claims from brands, as I know firsthand that there's a lot of fakery around. However, since I’ve had positive experiences with green coffee in the past, I felt optimistic and was eager to try Skinny Coffee as soon as it arrived in my mailbox.

To prepare the coffee, I use a coffee press with two teaspoons of coffee and boiling water. I let it infuse for a while and pour it into a cup once it reaches my preferred temperature, without adding milk or sugar. While those can be added if desired, I find it quite enjoyable on its own.

To get the most benefit from Skinny Coffee, it's recommended to drink it on an empty stomach before breakfast. The instructions suggest waiting thirty minutes after drinking it to eat. However, I feel relatively full after having the coffee, so I wait until I feel hungry enough to have breakfast.

During my first experience, I noticed that I didn’t feel the need to eat for three to four hours. When I did eat, I found myself consuming smaller portions and feeling full more quickly. However, by the end of the 28 days of starting my day with Skinny Coffee, I noticed that the time between drinking the coffee and feeling hungry had decreased. On my 28th day, I felt hungry just twenty-five minutes later, suggesting that my body had adjusted to the coffee's effects, and it was not as effective.

In summary, the coffee tastes good, and I appreciate that it is packed with plant-based superfoods, making it a healthy choice. It does keep me feeling fuller for longer and has slightly boosted my energy levels. However, despite eating less over these 28 days, I have not lost any weight, although it has helped reduce bloating.

The company recommends drinking the coffee alongside a healthy diet and exercise program, which I wasn’t aware of until halfway through my trial. It would have been helpful if the box included a booklet for guidance. From what I understand, the weight loss program may only be accessible if purchased through their website directly. If you're buying it from the Holland & Barrett website or store, you might not be able to obtain it, though I can't say for certain, as I checked in-store just last week.

Overall, I believe that the Skinny Coffee Club has the potential to help you lose weight if you follow the 28-day diet and exercise program. The transformation photos on their website are impressive. However, I find it hard to believe that you would see any dramatic weight loss just by drinking the coffee in the morning without making any other lifestyle changes. In my experience, I haven't eaten poorly during the program and have been moderately active, yet the results have been modest. Of course, everyone's body reacts differently.

I imagine that if you drink this coffee alongside the SoShape 28-day challenge, you could potentially lose a significant amount of weight while ensuring you receive all the essential nutrition your body needs.

Nonetheless, based on the benefits I’ve experienced from the coffee, such as feeling less bloated and having a reduced appetite, I would definitely buy this product again when it's discounted. However, it certainly is not worth it for the full price, as it wasn't as effective as my much-loved Nescafe Green Blend, which noticeably worked on me and was a fraction of the price and contained more green coffee.

To conclude

So, picking out the right kind of drinks can really help when you're trying to lose weight. Whether it’s the health benefits of green tea or the energy boost from black coffee, each drink brings something different to the table. Adding these into your daily routine can help with digestion, keep your appetite in check, and give you some much-needed nutrients without piling on the calories.

It’s all about finding what works for you and fits your lifestyle so that it aligns with your diet and exercise plan. Mixing things up is worthwhile, so feel free to try different combinations to keep it fun and interesting. Being well-hydrated while being mindful of your drink choices can really set you up for success on your weight loss journey.

Previous
Previous

Italian Food Buffet at Osteria Rodizio Rico, The Cube, Birmingham

Next
Next

15 Best Makeup Prep Essentials for a Flawless Skin Finish