Gum It Up
Don't let the "fat-free" claims on mints and candies fool you -- theyre still loaded with sugar. Instead, opt for gum: Studies show "smackers" consume fewer daily calories.
Eat Healthy At the Vending Machine - Page 2
Gulp This!
It's hard to swallow, but the wrong drinks can really wreak havoc on your waistline. Below, the scoop on some common sips
SIP
Water: This zero-calorie pick offers the best means of hydrating the body, as well as sustaining energy and productivity, says Zied.
Fruit juices: Since many contain artificial flavors, be sure to look for nutrient-rich drinks labeled 100 percent juice.
Milk: The fats in this does-a-body-good beverage make it a solid choice -- and a healthily satiating one when you're hungry, says Evers.
SKIP
Soda: "One can contains about 150 calories," says Zied. And diet sodas aren't any better: University of Texas researchers found those who drank them regularly tended to gain more weight than those who skipped them altogether, as the sweeteners contained in diet drinks activate gastric juices, which increase appetite.
Sports drinks: High in sugar and low in nutrients, they're generally no different than candy, says Zied.
Teas and lemonade: They may seem harmless, but "many are artificially flavored -- making them sky-high in sugar," explains Evers.