Favorite Beverages reviewed in 2005:

1. Arizona Diet Green Tea with Ginseng
2. Propel Fitness Water
3. Minute Maid Heartwise Orange Juice
4. Dannon Light n Fit Smoothie
5. Yoplait Light Smoothie
6. Sprite Zero
7. Caffeine-free Diet Coke

2005 was a very active year in beverage trends. Our number 1 and 3 favorites could be considered "functional foods." Functional Foods are foods (or beverages) that may provide a health benefit beyond basic nutrition (IFIC definition). Arizona Diet Green Tea with Ginseng makes use of green tea which is rich in antioxidants - good for you and Minute Maid Heartwise Orange Juice has added plant sterols, known to lower cholesterol.

Another big trend in beverages this year was flavored water, which led to our number 2 pick Propel Fitness Water. I definitely was not a big fan of this trend - I like water to taste like water, and not a watered down beverage, but Propel Fitmess Water managed to achieve the balance of adding a little flavor, plus enhancing the water with vitamins - but it still managed to maintain the natural taste of water.

2005 was also saw the introduction of a number of yogurt smoothies. Our favorite two are number 4 and 5 on our list. I'm not sure how long these beverages will be around because these drinks tended to cost a little bit more than regular drinks. Sodas were also reformulated with Splenda, renamed or new flavors added. I have to have soda occasionally, that's why they made it to number 6 and 7. Sprite Zero is my soda of choice, but Caffeine free Diet Coke has been a long time favorite.

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