Are Enhanced Waters Really Healthier?

Drinks may have less vitamins, nutrients and more sugar

Flavored, enhanced waters claim to be healthier than soda, but they may not be as healthy as they seem.

Sales of flavored waters skyrocketed 30 percent last year. Industry experts said they accounted for almost 30 percent of all the beverages bought in 2006.

"They're sweet," said nutritionist Alana Sugar. "They're sweet-tasting and they're advertised as having vitamins in them."

Sugar said those drinks may have less vitamins and nutrients than you think, and they have a lot of sugar. Also, those bottles usually have two-and-a-half servings.

She recommends adding natural fruit juice to club soda instead.

Or, "Don't be afraid to start drinking pure water," Sugar said. "That's the best thing you can do for yourself."

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