Wishful Drinking? Liquid Health Trends

With Instagram filled with images of mysterious green health drinks, and John Lewis reportedly selling a smoothie maker every 30 seconds, healthy drinks seem to be a trend that refuses to budge. These pond-like concoctions don’t look appetizing, but deliver on micronutrients for those who find it difficult to stop for an apple, let alone their 5-a-day.

But with supermodels and sports stars alike supping on extortionately expensive and exotic concoctions, is there any point in trying to recreate the magic at home? Here at Belle we’ve scoured the supermarket shelves for the health super drinks that could put a spring in your step, without clearing your wallet.

The Fizzy Wonder

What?

Emergen-C is an immunity and energy supplement drink. Packing 1000mg of vitamin C and 15 nutrients including Zinc, Vitamin B and D,  the handy wallet-sized sachet is perfect for replenishing much needed nutrients.

Why?

Can’t be bothered working out which vitamin and mineral supplements you need? One daily dose offers an impressive mix of 15 key nutrients: Vitamins C, B1, B2, B6, B12 and D, Folic Acid, Niacin, Pantothenic acid, Potassium, Calcium, Magnesium, Manganese, Chromium and Zinc.

Taste?

You won’t notice the difference from a fruity fizzy drink, plus it comes in three flavours, orange, lemon and strawberry, so take your pick. Priced £4.99 for a pack of 8 from Boots or Tesco

The Family Classic

What?

Chances are you’ve heard of Horlicks, it’s been around for 140 years after all, longer than the teabag. But you might know the malted milk drink better as a bedtime aid.

Why?

Far from a bedtime treat for your nan, Horlicks is packed with 14 essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin D, which, in the UK, we physically can’t make between October to April.

Taste?

Anyone who’s tried malteasers before will recognise mild, sweet malty taste of Horlicks. The product also comes in a Light Chocolate flavour, which works as a lower calorie alternative to hot chocolate. Priced from £2.00 available from all good retailers

The Supermodel Smoothie

What?

Want the real supermodel glow? They’re all sipping on algae. Sun Chlorella to be precise, and Rosie Huntington Whitely, David Haye and Victoria Beckham are all fans

Why?

It would be quicker to explain why not. Its bio-available nutrients make it a perfect whole food multi vitamin, with 540% of your RDA of vitamin D per dose and a B12 content equivalent to a 32 ounce steak.

Taste?

There’s no denying this one, algae tastes like algae. But mix it with some apples, spinach lime and water, and whizz up in a blender, and you’ll be enjoying your first green shake in no time. Priced £21.95 for a month’s supply and available from Tesco.com

The Dairy Free Shake

What?

Everything But The Cow is and nutritious new soya protein shake made with real fruit, 100% natural and free from artificial flavours, artificial sweeteners, additives and preservatives.

Why?

Think you need a protein boost after a workout, but scared of industrial looking protein shakes? Everything But The Cow’s unique blend of 7g NON GMO soya protein and 20% real fruit, makes it a perfect shake for pre workout energy and post workout repair, or for people who want a healthier and fruitier choice of soft drink. The shakes are also dairy-free, fat free and low calorie and despite blending soya with real fruit, they contain half the amount of sugar found in leading fruit juices, as they contain no refined sugar and just a hint of honey

Taste?

Sweet and fruity, and available in three flavours; Mango & Orange, Strawberry & Raspberry and Banana & Kiwi. (£2.29 for 330ml) Available from Tesco

The Wine Imposter

What?

Nature’s Best Pomegranate Extract with Red Grape works just like a fruit squash, add three or four teaspoons to a glass of water every day and you’re set.

Why?

Barely a day goes by where red wine doesn’t make the news for its surprising health benefits. The secret’s in the polyphenols. These antioxidants are thought to provide several heart-protecting benefits, including reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad”) cholesterol.

Taste?

A strong berry flavour when used neat, but more of a pleasant refreshing drink mixed with water. £13.95 for 500ml, visit www.naturesbest.co.uk