Tuesday 28 August 2012

10 Worst Drinks for Your Body

As a recreational drinker, I found this information most interesting.

The full original story: here.


The 10 worst drinks for your body:
  1. Juice drinks – Most are loaded with sugar; choose only those labeled 100% juice.
  2. Whipped coffee drinks – They can contain up to 800 calories and 170 grams of sugar. 
  3. Flavored waters – Along with the vitamins, most also contain artificial sweeteners. Select those that only list water and natural flavors on the label.
  4. Soda – The overconsumption of sodas has been linked to obesity. 
  5. Frozen mixed drinks – The mixers are the culprit here, usually filled with artificial colors, flavors and sweeteners.
  6. “Healthy” fruit smoothies – Premade fast-food smoothies don’t always have real fruit and are loaded with sugar. For a healthier option, make your own so you can control the ingredients.
  7. Hard liquor – After 2 drinks, your risk of obesity and other health problems increases. If you’re going to drink, keep it limited.
  8. Lemonade – Skip the ready-made lemonades and make your own, minus the preservatives and artificial coloring. Opt for either less sugar or try honey to sweeten.
  9. Sports drinks – The electrolytes are good when you’ve sweating, but most drinks also have a lot of sugar and preservatives you don’t need.
  10. Energy drinks –You may get an energy burst, but it will be a short-term fix because it’s from an overload of caffeine and sugar.


So, maybe it's a good momento to remind you that this week is the "Festa Major" in Vilafranca del Penedés, home to wines and cavas, that, you've probably noticed, are not on this list. 

More info here: Programació Festa Major (not in English, sorry!)

RIP Neil Armstrong

Although slightly late, I'd like to mention the passing of Neil Armstrong.

Many of the tributes published describe him as a "true American hero", and I don't know about you but for once, I agree.

Apparently Neil Armstrong was an unassuming* man, well-known for avoiding publicity and attempts to cash in* on his fame.

His family describe him as a "reluctant American hero [who] served his nation proudly as a navy fighter pilot, test pilot, and astronaut", and added "While we mourn the loss of a very good man, we also celebrate his remarkable life and hope that it serves as an example to young people around the world to work hard to make their dreams come true, to be willing to explore and push the limits, and to selflessly serve a cause greater than themselves. [...] For those who may ask what they can do to honor Neil, we have a simple request. Honor his example of service, accomplishment and modesty, and the next time you walk outside on a clear night and see the moon smiling down at you, think of Neil Armstrong and give him a wink."

(More here)

A particularly creative tribute to him can be found here: Danish Artist's interactive tribute to Neil Armstrong

















*Vocabulary:

unassuming (adj) = modest, unpretentious
cash in on sth. (v) = take financial advantage of sth.