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Weight Loss

What is the best weight loss drink?

The best weight loss drink is plain water. It has zero calories, reduces appetite, and supports every process in your body. After water, green tea and black coffee are the most well-supported options for helping with weight loss.

No drink alone will cause you to lose weight. But the right drinks can help you eat less, burn slightly more, and avoid hundreds of hidden calories.

How Drinks Affect Weight Loss

Many people do not realize how many calories come from drinks. One can of soda has around 140 calories. A sweetened coffee drink from a cafe can have 300 to 500 calories. Swapping these for zero-calorie drinks can create a significant calorie deficit without changing your food at all.

Some drinks also have mild metabolism-boosting effects. Caffeine in coffee and tea increases the rate at which your body burns calories for a few hours after drinking it.

Best Drinks for Weight Loss

  • Water – Zero calories, fills you up before meals, supports fat metabolism
  • Green tea – Contains EGCG, a compound linked to slightly faster fat burning; best without sugar
  • Black coffee – Caffeine boosts metabolism and reduces appetite temporarily; drink without sugar or cream
  • Black or herbal tea – Zero calories, hydrating, and great as a replacement for sugary drinks
  • Apple cider vinegar water – Some evidence that 1 to 2 tablespoons in water before meals reduces appetite slightly
  • Protein shakes (unsweetened) – Help hit protein goals without excess calories; best as a meal replacement, not an extra

Drinks to Avoid When Losing Weight

  • Sodas and energy drinks – High in sugar, low in nutrition
  • Fruit juices – Even natural juice has a lot of sugar and no fiber
  • Sweetened coffee drinks – Frappuccinos and similar drinks can have more calories than a full meal
  • Alcohol – High in empty calories and lowers your ability to make good food choices
  • Store-bought smoothies – Often packed with added sugar despite looking healthy

Tips for Making Smart Drink Choices

  • Swap one sugary drink a day for water or herbal tea. This alone can save 1,000 calories per week.
  • Drink coffee black or with a small splash of unsweetened plant milk.
  • Make your own smoothies at home so you control what goes in.
  • Read labels on any “diet” or “wellness” drinks. Many are not as healthy as they appear.
  • Drink slowly so your body has time to register hydration and satisfaction.

Helpful Tools

Mini FAQ

Does green tea actually help with weight loss?
Yes, modestly. Studies suggest green tea can increase fat burning slightly, especially during exercise. The effect is real but small. It works best as part of a calorie-controlled plan.

Is lemon water good for losing weight?
Lemon water is a good low-calorie drink and helps some people drink more water overall. The lemon itself does not burn fat, but replacing sugary drinks with lemon water absolutely supports weight loss.

Can protein shakes help me lose weight?
Yes, when used correctly. A protein shake as a meal replacement can help you eat fewer calories while staying full. But drinking protein shakes on top of your regular meals adds extra calories instead.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not medical advice.

Body Shapers

Written by Body Shapers, Certified Fitness & ShapeWear Advisor

Reviewed for accuracy. Not a substitute for professional advice.

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