What are beverages?

Beverages are defined as liquids meant for drinking, other than water. They provide fluids, electrolytes, minerals and vitamins essential for maintaining good health and vitality. These beverages provide hydration and replenishment, and some also provide energy, relaxation and enjoyment. Here are some categories of beverages:

1. Non-alcoholic Beverages:

- Fruit Juices: These are extracted from fresh fruits and contain no added sugars. They are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

- Vegetable Juices: Juices made from fresh vegetables, often combined to provide a variety of nutrients.

- Smoothies: Blended beverages usually made from fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and/or protein powders.

- Milkshakes: Blended beverages made from milk, ice cream and sometimes additional flavoring.

- Coffee and Tea: Common hot beverages made from brewed coffee beans and tea leaves, respectively. They can be consumed with milk, sugar or sweeteners.

- Sports Drinks: Specially formulated beverages designed for athletes and physically active individuals to replenish electrolytes and fluids lost during intense activity.

- Carbonated Drinks (Soft Drinks): Beverages that have added carbon dioxide gas for fizz, often containing added sugar and artificial flavors.

- Energy Drinks: Beverages that often contain high amounts of caffeine, sweeteners and other ingredients like vitamins, herbs and taurine to provide an energy boost.

2. Alcoholic Beverages:

- Beer: A fermented beverage made from cereal grains, usually barley, and flavored with hops.

- Wine: A fermented beverage made from grapes or other fruits.

- Spirits (Liquors): Distilled alcoholic beverages made from grains, fruits or vegetables. Examples include whiskey, vodka, rum, gin and tequila.

- Cocktails: Mixed drinks that combine different types of alcoholic beverages with mixers like fruit juice, soda or other ingredients.

3. Other Beverages:

- Coconut Water: Natural fluid found inside coconuts, providing hydration and essential minerals.

- Herbal Tea: A beverage made by infusing herbs, flowers or spices in hot water.

- Kombucha: A fermented tea beverage made with black or green tea, bacteria and yeast, often flavored with fruit.

- Probiotics drinks: These are beverages that contain probiotic cultures, which are beneficial bacteria that help maintain gut health.