Summer is one amazing season but we just can’t really enjoy it without a good refreshing drink that keeps us hydrated. While water is great sometimes we need an alternative. I am not talking about processed drinks or soda; I am talking about infused water.
Infused water is second best to plain water, or maybe even better because it provides supreme benefits. The truth is, you have total control of the fruits, veggies, and herbs you use. You can adjust to your daily nutrition needs. But, since we are talking about summer, you will have more benefits if you use seasonal fruits and veggies.
First of all the body is hydrated better. In order for our bodies to absorb water better, it needs minerals like electrolytes. You will get these from the fruit and some of them are Sodium, Magnesium, Potassium, and Calcium.
Overall benefits of infused water:
- Less sugar
- The Water has a Better Flavor
- You will start to drink more water
- Speeds up the Metabolism
- Water Soluble Nutrients like Folic acid, Biotin, Niacin, B6, B12, Vitamin C, etc.
- Great for weight loss: not only because it speeds up the metabolism but also because it gives you the feeling of being full
- Reduces your Cravings
- Prevents Kidney Stones
- Improved Mood
- Increased Energy
- Detox
- Etc.
I am not exaggerating. There are many benefits to drinking this refreshing drink. It is not difficult to make and it tastes amazing. You won’t be getting back to sodas and other processed drinks once you try at least one of the following recipes.
1. Mint Lemon Water
While you can enjoy this drink any type of the day, I advise you to start with at least one glass in the morning. This will detox your body and you will feel awesome from the beginning of the day
Ingredients:
- 1 quart Water, purified, spring or distilled (cold)
- 1 Lemon, cut into thin circles
- a handful of Mint Leaves
Directions:
1. In a pitcher add the sliced lemon and the mint leaves.
2. Pour 1-quart cold water and stir.
3. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
4. Enjoy!
2. Lime Cherry
The real beauty of making infused water is this recipe. Personally, I love it! The citrus lime makes the base taste with a background hint of sweetness of the cherry.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Cherries, fresh, halved
- 1 Lime, sliced
- 1 quart Water, cold
Directions:
1. In a pitcher add the cherries and lime slices.
2. Pour in cold water and stir.
3. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
4. Enjoy!
3. Basil Watermelon Infused Water
Watermelon alone is one of the most refreshing produce in summer. Think about how beneficial will be used for infused water. Plus the basil gives additional flavor and benefits too.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of chopped Watermelon (remove the rind)
- 15 Basil leaves, muddled
- 1 quart Water (cold)
Directions:
1. In a pitcher first, add the watermelon and basil.
2. Pour in cold water and stir.
3. Refrigerate for 4 hours.
4. Enjoy!
Once you try these recipes I assure you that you will start experimenting with fruits, veggies, and herbs. A good start is to use your favorite produce, and then just use your imagination. You never know what flavors you might come up with.
To make infused water even better let it sit in the fridge overnight. This will give the ingredients plenty of time to release all the important nutrients and flavors, especially when you are using herbs. However, if you want to leave an infused water overnight and it contains lemon and/or lime, peel them before adding them in the pitcher.
Start enjoying summer with a proper refreshing drink!
