While thinking about how to stay away from the cookie jar, also consider the beverages you imbibe. Some are better than others for encouraging weight loss.

Water

The most obvious on this list, drinking a lot of water can help in a number of ways. You’ll feel full longer, and eat less. Drinking cold water can increase your metabolic rate, and it can make exercise easier and more efficient. Best of all, if you’re drinking water, you’re eschewing sugary drinks.

Kombucha

Researchers say that drinking kombucha tea may help reduce fat accumulation. A fermented beverage made from tea and probiotics, kombucha may alter how the body responds to hunger. But many kombuchas are sweetened, so keep that in mind when selecting one with weight loss in mind.

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Nut Milk

If you need to have some kind of milky beverage, consider almond milk or cashew milk as an alternative to fatty’s cow’s milk. There are also coconut, walnut, pistachio and hazelnut milks, although some of these might not be much lower fat than cow’s milk.

Pineapple Juice

This one comes with a big caveat: It contains a lot of sugar. That said, pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that may aid in digestion and potentially boost metabolism slightly. So enjoy the sweet deliciousness of pineapple juice in moderation.

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Green Tea

Green tea has powerful antioxidants called catechins, which encourage our body to produce the hormone norepinephrine, which tells our cells to release stored fat so it can be used for energy. Green tea also has caffeine and can boost metabolism and suppress appetite.

Black Coffee

The caffeine in black coffee can boost your metabolism, so you burn calories faster. This low-calorie beverage can give you the fuel you need for a more energetic workout, too. Black coffee also contains antioxidants, such as chlorogenic acid, that can help with weight loss.

Apple Cider Vinegar

A few studies have shown that drinking apple cider vinegar can aid in weight loss. Because apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, drinking too much can be bad for your gut. If you want to try it, consider taking 1 or 2 teaspoons before a meal. You can drink it straight up or mix it into water.

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