Drinking To Your Health
The 10 Healthiest Beverages
UCLA Research Study
Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles ranked these 10 beverages according to their antioxidant levels. Study led by Dr. David Heber at the Center for Human Nutrition, published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry.
Pomegranate Juice
The Most Medicinal Fruit
20% greater antioxidant potency than any other beverage. Backed by 47 studies including 14 clinical trials.
Red Wine
Harvard-Endorsed Heart Protection
One of eight proven ways to reduce coronary heart disease risk according to Harvard researchers.
Complete Rankings
Pomegranate Juice
The Most Medicinal Fruit
Health Benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants with excellent safety/bioavailability
- Supports prostate health
- Promotes cardiovascular health
- May help with erectile dysfunction
- Backed by 47 studies including 14 clinical studies
Note: POM Wonderful 100% pomegranate juice is the only guaranteed 100% pomegranate juice
Red Wine
Heart-Protective Antioxidants
Health Benefits:
- Reduces coronary heart disease risk (Harvard study)
- Contains resveratrol that may inhibit tumor development
- Aids formation of nerve cells
- May help treat Alzheimer's and Parkinson's
- Best varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Syrah, Pinot Noir
Note: Non-alcoholic alternatives: Purple grape juice and non-alcoholic red wines provide similar benefits
Warning: Avoid if inclined towards alcoholism or addiction
Concord Grape Juice
Heart-Protective Antioxidants
Health Benefits:
- Heart-protective properties
- May help reduce blood pressure
- Valuable source of antioxidants
Blueberry Juice
Nutrient Powerhouse
Health Benefits:
- High levels of manganese, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K
- Rich in dietary fiber
- May limit development of certain cancers
- Supports vascular health
- May prevent atherosclerosis and stroke
- Protects against neurodegenerative diseases
Black Cherry Juice
Exercise Recovery & Pain Relief
Health Benefits:
- High in antioxidants
- Expedites healing of exercise-induced muscle injuries
- Relieves pain from gout and arthritis
- May reduce colon cancer risk
- Lowers blood uric acid levels by up to 15%
Note: Recommended: 2 tablespoons of tart cherry juice concentrate daily
AƧaĆ Juice
Superfruit Nutrition
Health Benefits:
- Rich in Omega fats and amino acids
- Contains electrolytes and antioxidants
- High in protein and vitamins A, B1, E
- Helps with digestive problems
- May improve skin irritation
- Used for insomnia treatment
Cranberry Juice
Urinary & Oral Health
Health Benefits:
- High in antioxidants and vitamin C
- Anti-clotting properties from tannins
- Reduces urinary tract infections
- Effective against dental plaque bacteria
- May limit cancer development
- Supports vascular health
Orange Juice
Vitamin C Powerhouse
Health Benefits:
- Major source of Vitamin C
- Neutralizes harmful elements in the body
- Stimulates iron absorption
- Reduces iron deficiency
- Strengthens immune system
- Potential cancer treatment applications
Tea
Green, Black & White Varieties
Health Benefits:
- Reduces heart attack and atherosclerosis risk
- White tea may protect against colon cancer
- Reduces memory loss risk in older adults
- May help prevent diabetes complications
- Inhibits cataract formation
- Best consumed as actual tea, not supplements
Note: Effective at less than 5 cups per day
Apple Juice / Extract
Brain & Heart Protection
Health Benefits:
- Contains essential nutrients and vitamins
- Protects against common cold
- Improves brain function
- Provides heart-protective qualities
- Antioxidants protect against various cancers
- Apple skins provide greater cancer protection
Note: Apples with skin are more potent than without
Sources & References
Primary Research:
- ā¢ Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry
- ā¢ University of California, Los Angeles
- ā¢ Dr. David Heber, Center for Human Nutrition
- ā¢ David Geffen School of Medicine
Additional Studies:
- ā¢ Harvard Medical School
- ā¢ University of California at Davis
- ā¢ University of Wisconsin
- ā¢ University of Scranton