Water is essential for every cell in the body, impacting brain, heart and kidney function and more. When hydrated, your memory and concentration are sharp, your heart can efficiently pump enough blood to cells, and your kidneys can filter out your body’s toxins.
Whether playing sports, going for a walk or simply sitting in the sun, it’s important to stay hydrated in the summer months. Water makes up about 60% of the human body, and for every pound of sweat you lose, that’s one pint of water you need to replenish. The amount of water required to stay healthy depends on age, weight and activity levels; however, the standard recommendation is to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water every day.
A great way to make sure you drink the suggested eight glasses a day is by infusing your water! It allows you to flavor your water naturally and reap the benefits of the added fruits, vegetables and herbs. You’ll get a boost of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, potassium and phytochemicals, all while enjoying bursts of natural flavors. Many ready-to-drink “flavored” waters include a variety of preservatives, artificial sweeteners, refined sugars and other additives. There’s no reason to consume all of these “extras” when you can create fresh, flavor-infused water at home.
Ingredient Options Fruit: citrus, berries, tropical fruit, melons, apples, grapes, peaches Vegetable: cucumber, carrots, celery, peppers Herb: mint, cilantro, basil, lavender Spice: cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, black pepper Water: filtered, sparkling plain water, coconut water
How to Prep Homemade Infused Water
Wash fruits and vegetables and thinly slice to extract more flavor. For herbs, use the leaves whole or tear them slightly. Mix flavor combinations in a pitcher or individual container, and then add water. The amount of add-ins used depends on the intensity of flavor desired. Let your water infuse for at least 1-2 hours or overnight.
Try some of our favorite infusions:
- Strawberry + cucumber + thyme (pictured below)
- Grapefruit + jalapeno
- Blueberry + basil
- Apricot + raspberry + mint
- Cucumber + lemon + celery
