Slash the Sugar

A new study by UK and US researchers found that blood pressure is pushed up by every extra sugar-sweetened drink we down a day. The Harvard School of Public Health offers these ideas for low and no-sugar drinks:

Infused water

You can easily buy flavoured water, but it is just as simple to make your own by adding citrus fruits, ginger or fresh mint to a jug of water.

Fresh fruit coolers

Smoothies are marketed as "health" foods, but they are loaded with sugar. Instead, make a refreshing fresh fruit cooler; blend ice, sparkling water and melon or berries until slushy. Garnish with mint or citrus slices.

Tea

Black or green, hot or cols, tea in an excellent sugar-free beverage. Try fruit-flavoured herbal teas, or teas with cinnamon, vanilla or other sweet spices.

Sparkling juice

Make your own with 350ml of sparkling water and 40ml of juice. For a flavour boost, add sliced citrus or fresh herbs.

Low-sodium broth

There is no rule that says we must satisfy our thirst with something sweet. A low-sodium variety of miso soup can be a satisfying way to give your body the fluid it needs.