As we spend more time outside in the heat during the summer, it becomes more important than ever to stay fully hydrated. Whether you’re just out for a walk or you’re doing some high-intensity workouts, the more that you sweat, the more that you need to rehydrate! Keep in mind that you shouldn’t be waiting until you’re thirsty to drink water. Fitness experts say it’s optimal to prevent thirst by keeping up with your H20 intake. If you struggle to drink plain water, infused water recipes may be your solution.
On the Nutrisystem weight loss plan, we recommend drinking 64 ounces of water each day. Stay happy, healthy and hydrated with fresh and fruity infused water! Here are some infused water ideas to help make it even easier to keep drinking all day long:
1. Lemon Water
This is probably the most common infused water idea—and for good reason. This citrusy addition adds a bold burst of flavor to water. But there are some health benefits of lemon water, too. The Cleveland Clinic reports that lemon water can aid in digestion, supply some vitamin C and even give you a potassium boost, among other benefits.1
Of course, you can add other fruits to your lemon water recipe to pump up the flavor even more. Add lemons and mint together for a refreshing combo. We also love lemons with cucumber for a super “fresh” taste.
2. Other Citrus Combos
Who said lemons get to have all the fun? Other citrus fruits like limes and oranges can also be zesty additions to punch up the flavor of your H20. Lemons and limes together are super refreshing. We also love the delightful flavor of adding squeezed oranges—it’s like a light orange juice. Bonus: Researchers at Western University in Ontario have also recently discovered a molecule found in oranges could reduce obesity and prevent heart disease and diabetes!2
3. Bursts of Berries
Another great fruit choice for infused water recipes are berries. Strawberries give water a hint of sweet while raspberries add some tart tanginess. Blueberries are lovely with mint—or maybe even some lemon. Since berries are known to be chock-full of antioxidant power, these additions have a health benefit, too.
4. Chia Water
Chia seeds are a superfood that are low in calories and a healthy source of fiber. They are also packed with antioxidants to support your immune system. They can make an easy addition to smoothies, as a topping or even mixed into puddings or jams. But one way you may not have thought to use chia seeds is in your water! Still, this may be the simplest way to introduce these powerful little seeds into your diet. Some people also like to add chia seeds to lemon water so there’s a bit more flavor.
5. Herb Infusions
We’ve already mentioned that fresh mint leaves can make a refreshing addition to water. But you might also consider other herb infusions like ginger, basil, rosemary or peppermint. Each of these can add a new layer of flavor, particularly when paired with different fruits. We love lemon water with fresh basil. Strawberries and basil also go well together. Ginger and orange are also delicious!
6. Juicy Melon Additions
Melons are already known for being juicy and dripping with flavor—so they can really add some major flavor factor to water. Sliced up watermelon, cantaloupe or honey dew can make your water colorful and delicious. Many melons also pair well with herbs! Get creative and find a flavor combo that you like best. We definitely suggest trying watermelon with basil for a satisfying summertime sip.
7. Go Tropical
Maybe tropical water sounds like the perfectly quench-worthy drink on a hot summer day. Think pineapple, mango, kiwi or even coconut! These tropical fruit additions can really up the ante on an otherwise plain glass of water. A few sips and you’ll find yourself mentally transported to paradise with turquoise waters and white sand!
8. Get Your Veggies
Fruits typically get the spotlight for infused water recipes. Besides cucumbers, most of the suggestions you’ll find online include fruits because of their sweetness factor. Still, you can think outside of the box and try some completely creative flavor combinations. Carrots and apples make a yummy water infusion drink. Celery can also work well, possibly paired with some cucumbers. Beets and lemons or beets and apples also makes a unique combination. Ultimately, it comes down to what you like! Anything that gets you to drink more water is a definite win.
At the end of the day, there are no set-in-stone rules for water infusion. Use your creativity and experiment—and you just may find the next “it” drink. Lemon water will always have its place, but with so many potential ideas, you could have a different flavor combo every day this summer!
Sources:
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/7-reasons-to-start-your-day-with-lemon-water-infographic/
- https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-03/uowo-mfi030320.php
