12 Healthy Drinks That Can Make You Feel Better

Have you ever had that moment at the end of the day when you feel like you’re 20 years older than you really are? You’re tired, stressed, or just plain old worn down. Next thing you know, you’re coming down with a cold, you can’t get out of bed in the morning, and you’re starting to get wrinkles. Eek! (Ok, perhaps I’ve exaggerated a bit.) But seriously, did you know that there are everyday items in your kitchen or pantry that can help? To lift your mood, boost your immune system, and improve your long-term health, check out these drinks that can make you feel better.

1. Warm Milk. Traditionally, warm milk is the definition of a relaxing beverage. Whether it's the effects of the amino acid, tryptophan, entering the brain and releasing serotonin into the body or the simple hominess of sipping the drink, warm milk deserves its comforting reputation. (Warning: This is a hand-me-down remedy from our mothers’ mother, meaning if grandma says it works, you better try it and see!)
2. Black Coffee: Coffee triggers alertness and boosts a person’s mood. Some people even claim increased concentration after knocking back a cup or two. However, remember to keep it to a moderate amount. Too much caffeine can have the opposite effect on people prone to anxiety.
3. Green Tea: This popular tea has numerous long-term health perks, like fighting cancer with powerful anti-oxidants, and heart disease by preventing blood clots. It also strengthens teeth and bones. Add a little honey for an anti-inflammatory bonus. You can even keep it interesting with natural flavor additives to change up the pace.
4. Mint Tea: Preferred by some more than green tea, mint tea is a quick relaxation remedy for stiff or twitchy muscles. It also helps with digestion.
5. Ginger Tea: This zippy tea is great for anyone suffering from joint pain since it reduces inflammation. It's also excellent for calming nausea and easing other digestive issues. It's a general immune booster, ideal for many health complaints.
6. Grapefruit Juice: The tart flavor of grapefruit juice is an invigorating pick-me-up. The juice is packed with nutrients that lower the insulin levels of diabetics. It also combats fluid retention which can be beneficial for travelers and pregnant women.
7. Lemon Juice: This tangy treat is excellent for detoxing the body. Starting your morning with fresh lemon water or tea can give you a boost, help with headaches, and build up your immune system with its vitamin C fighting power!
8. Orange Juice: The high levels of vitamin C in orange juice make it a popular go-to for anyone with a cold or other ailment. It is also a good pain reliever for those suffering from inflammation. Some diabetics use orange juice when experiencing low blood sugar to help raise their glucose levels.
9. Apple Juice: Besides helping fight cancer and other ailments, unfiltered apple juice contains agents that can help ward off headaches. The scent is therapeutic, so throw a batch on the stove with a little inflammation-fighting cinnamon to lift your mood. Now admit it, you know just thinking of apple juice takes you back to kindergarten and graham crackers. So, take a sip and reclaim your youth for a moment.
10. Cranberry Juice: This is a powerful bacteria fighter that helps combat kidney and urinary tract infections. Cranberry juice can also rapidly reduce fungal infections. It’s also a great mood enhancer when mixed with certain spirits . . . responsibly!
11. Blueberry Juice: Not only do blueberries add fiber to help with digestion, but their juice has several long-term health benefits, such as reduced risks of heart disease and cancer, and improved memory. Blueberries are prized by women for their help with menstrual pain. (In that case, I’ll take it in pill form, lotion form, drink form, you name it!)
12. Good Ol' Water: It's always an amazing, easy, and healthy way to feel refreshed and ready to go!

These beverages are powerhouses of nutrition that will benefit you over the long term, but can also offer immediate benefits. I don’t know about you, but a few looked like they could be quite tasty mixed together. Who’s up for some experimenting?!