Syracuse (WSYR-TV) -- With lake effect snow piling up in parts of Central New York, it’s the perfect time to go from iced tea to hot tea and from chocolate milk to hot cocoa. Did you know comforting hot drinks can also be good for you?
If you’re going for tea – make it green. It’s probably the healthiest drink there is. It’s touted as a possible prevention for cancer and heart disease. However, scientists say the studies aren’t conclusive, but the tea does contain antioxidants that are known to be heart disease busters.
Hot chocolate, on the other hand, especially dark cocoa, is good for you. Packed with flavonoids, studies have shown dark cocoa can lower blood pressure, cut out bad cholesterol and even prevent diabetes. For extra protein, make dark, hot cocoa with skim milk instead of water.
Coffee sometimes gets a bad rap because of the caffeine, but research shows coffee in moderation is also good for you.
In a recent study out of Harvard, scientists found caffeine may reduce the risk of developing gallstones, colon cancer, and Parkinson’s disease and also improve your memory.
