A few suggestions to drinking your way to better health.

With the changing of the season and it still being fairly early in the year, here are a few things to try out for a better you on the inside. Did you know that cranberry juice can help with stomach problems? If you sip one 6 - 8 oz glass of this beverage daily, it can halt the growth of a bacteria that causes stomach inflammation and ulcers? Cranberries are rich in vitamin C which kills bacteria and mops up radicals that may harm cells.

Did you know that cocoa can protect brain cells? By drinking an 8 oz cup of cocoa, you are increasing blood flow within a few hours thanks to the natural flavanols in cocoa. This nouishes brain cells which can help prevent dementia and stroke, according to Harvard scientists.

If you are a coffee drinker, according to the report from Annals of Internal Medicine, you may be less likely to have a fatal heart attack. Drinking two cups of coffee a day may make you less prone to diabetes, gall stones, colon cancer and liver disease. According to the report, this is all thanks to the plant phenols which are found in both the decaf and regular versions.

Have you ever tried pomegranate juice? It is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory and anti tumor effects according to Israeli researchers. This juice has more antioxidants than grapes, red wine or green tea. It is rich in ellagic acid and polyphenols which may boost the immune system and lower blood pressure. It's also found to help keep your cholesterol levels healthy.

Brightest blessings for a healthier you in 2009!