Drink these delicious beverages for a long and healthy life.
For most people, living to 100 may feel out of reach. Yet what seems unachievable to many is actually a reality for the 101,000 centenarians who’ve made it to 2024, likely due to years of making healthy decisions, like avoiding certain foods and habits, in order to extend their lives. Besides the foods we eat, the drinks we consume also play a role in the quality and length of our lives, according to Dr. Michaela Robbins, nurse practitioner.
“Certain drinks not only provide water and hydration to allow our body to function, but also provide things like bioactive compounds, electrolytes, and antioxidants while also getting rid of the bad stuff,” she explains. “Antioxidants, for example, help us detoxify free radicals and reduce inflammation, which is one of the biggest drivers of aging, and help you feel your best for longer.” The link between drinks and longevity is much more important than we might realize—that’s why we asked longevity experts for more information on which drinks can help us live our longest, healthiest, and best lives.
What’s the Link Between Drinks and Longevity?
“The goal of longevity isn’t just to add years to life; it’s about living those years well—achieving a longer health span,” explains Dr. Erin Barrett, senior director of product innovation and scientific affairs at Shaklee. “Staying properly hydrated supports cellular health and organ function (especially the kidneys), aids in nutrient absorption, and helps maintain energy levels.”
Antioxidants are the number one priority when it comes to drinks that can support healthy aging. These properties can reduce the risk of chronic disease, support brain and eye function, and even improve mental health. Make sure you’re looking for these specific properties and ingredients while browsing through your local grocery store’s drink aisle.
5 Drinks That’ll Help You Live to 100
Berry Smoothies
Berry smoothies—especially those made with blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries—contain anti-inflammatory properties to promote healthy aging. “These fruits are packed with antioxidants that combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, which is essential for maintaining cell health,” Dr. Barrett explains. Similarly, Dr. Robbins recommends starting your day with a berry smoothie, suggesting to “blend it with almond milk for bone health and nut butter for protein, and you have a perfect longevity breakfast.”
Green and Black Tea
It often feels like the benefits of drinking tea are limitless. Green and black tea are rich in powerful antioxidants, such as catechins, according to Dr. Barrett. “These compounds help neutralize free radicals and minimize oxidative stress, promoting cellular health,” she explains. “Regular consumption of these teas can be a simple yet effective way to support your health span.”
Black Coffee
Black coffee can get a bad rap when overconsumed, but it’s not just good for a morning pick-me-up. “Studies have indicated that long-term consumption of coffee can cut your risk of premature death by up to 30%, regardless of whether it is caffeinated or decaffeinated,” Dr. Robbins explains. “Coffee also stimulates neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin, which can elevate mood, and happiness is linked to longer lives.”
Hydrogen-rich Water
Of course, water is a go-to when it comes to hydration and healthy living, but there are a variety of packaged water that can do even more. For example, hydrogen-rich water adds extra molecular hydrogen gas to enhance its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, along with reducing the risk of high cholesterol and improving kidney function. While plain water is perfectly fine, enhanced water can boost its benefits.
Red Wine
We can’t stress this enough: there’s no amount of alcohol that is especially good for you. In fact, maintaining an alcohol-free lifestyle is a foolproof way to feel and be healthier; however, that’s not always an attainable goal for people living in today’s world, and in that case, red wine is the healthiest alcohol selection to opt for. “When consumed in moderation, red wine is a rich source of resveratrol, a potent antioxidant associated with numerous health benefits,” Dr. Barrett explains. “Resveratrol is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to promote heart health, making it a positive addition to a balanced diet aimed at supporting quality of life.”
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