This week, I am beginning a 12-week fitness challenge, equipped with a nutritional plan. The more preparation I do, the more I wonder if I can stick with it. I'm sure you've put your mind to something or started something, and then got bored of it and stopped midway. I don't see myself doing this in the food or fitness area, but along the lines of hydration.
Don't get me wrong, I love water, and I know the benefits of it. But it gets boring, really fast. The key to a healthy lifestyle is to drink water throughout the day. It's recommended to drink an entire gallon of water each day. To me, this seems close to impossible because of its mundaneness. Sure, to lead this healthy and hydrated lifestyle, I could write motivational guidelines on my jug, and carry it around all day like a looney. But, why not make drinking water fun?
One of the latest health trends is infused water. From fruits and vegetables to herbs and flowers, the possibilities are endless. This has become increasingly popular because there are so many different concoctions with limitless benefits that come out of it. Instead of plain, clear boring water, you can spruce it up with some color!
1. Berries
Whether it is a blueberry or a raspberry, there is a major benefit: antioxidants. By adding this into the daily intake, not only is there a sweeter taste, but an overall benefit to your body and skin.
2. Citrus
Citrus flavors are common in infused water, especially lemon. A fruit that can be a great additive is orange, be it peels or slices. The clean taste will not only quench your thirst, but burn fat!
3. Melons
I love watermelon, especially on hot summer days. But, I would've never thought of adding it to my water, would you? Adding melon (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew or crenshaw) to water can actually be a great source of fiber and potassium.
4. Herbs and Spices
You'd think this pair would only be used on meats and occasionally in cocktails. Think again and add it in your water! It's been proven that many of these additions to water can soothe pain and discomfort. Now, I do not recommend adding pepper flakes or cumin to your water. However, additions like ginger, parsley, rosemary, basil, thyme and cilantro are nothing but helpful.
5. Flowers
If you like the smell of flowers and think they're pretty, you can get artsy with your water too. Adding flowers like roses and hibiscus is a great way to boost your mood and spiritual self as it has therapeutic assets.
The important part of infused water is the preparation. Regardless of the ingredients being used, it is important to leave the mixture soaking at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours because of bacteria precautions. The way you cut the fruits and vegetables or if you decide to peel them is completely up to you and your container that you are using. The combination is up to you and your needs, but below are some good ones!
Orange, Lemon, Ginger
Helps with blood circulation, digestion and immune health.
Cucumber, Raspberry, Grape
Flushes out toxins, hydrates skin while cleansing, and acts as an anti-inflammatory.
Apple, Cinnamon
Improves bone and tissue health.
Strawberry, Lime
Filled with antioxidants and helps with anti-aging.
Lemon, Cucumber, Mint
Reduces bloating.
Mango, Ginger
Boosts metabolism.
I know I'm going to try some of these great combinations in my water this summer, how about you?
