Staying hydrated through the Luxeathon™ is crucial for health and performance. It's essential to balance water, life, and your overall well-being. Despite water being necessary for your bodily functions, many people dislike the taste of water. According to Prnewswire.com, "Nearly 1 in 3 Americans say they dislike the flavor of tap water." Therefore, many people choose to rely on sports drinks for hydration. However, according to Unity Point Health’s website, “The recommendation is adults and children should only have sports drinks during extended and heavy exercise that lasts longer than an hour.” Although most people dislike the taste of water, there are other water alternatives.
Infused water, also known as flavored water or detox water, is fresh and plain water infused with fruits, herbs, or vegetables without the added sugars, calories, or artificial flavorings. There are many benefits to drinking infused water, and the most important is that it increases your natural water consumption.
By adding fruits, vegetables, and herbs to your water, it can give you a boost in energy throughout the day. Moreover, the added natural flavors can satisfy your taste buds and contribute to the feeling of fullness, curbing your appetite.
Swapping sugary drinks for infused water is a perfect way to hit your daily water intake goal. Most health officials recommend consuming 4 to 6 cups of water daily, but this goal can change depending on how much water you intake from other food and beverage sources.
HGTV Health and Wellness has a plethora of fun-infused water recipes perfect for everyday use. If you are looking for a way to sweeten up your water, check out these recipes below!
Lemon Water
Lemon Water is the most common way to increase your daily intake. Many people start their day with hot water and lemon because of all the different health benefits. Whichever your preference is, one thing is for certain, lemon water keeps you hydrated and can help with cravings by curbing them.
Strawberry and Cucumber Water
Strawberry and Cucumber Water is another refreshing option. It offers numerous health benefits, including boosting hydration, providing essential vitamins and antioxidants, and supporting heart health. It’s fruity, fresh, and a great warm weather go-to.
Orange and Fennel Water
Orange and Fennel Water is another beverage that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Fennel is in the family of celery, parsnips, parsley, and carrots and most people mistake the herb for celery or dill because of its physical characteristics. People enjoy this infused water because of the tanginess from the orange and licorice taste of the fennel.
Pineapple, Mint, and Ginger Water
If you’re a pineapple lover, then this water is for you. Pineapple, Mint, and Ginger Water is a fruity water that will perk up any plain water. This infused water has many health benefits; including mint’s ability to aid with digestion, speed up the metabolism, and settle the stomach. Ginger and pineapple together can help strengthen the immune system and protect the body from infections and diseases.
Cucumber Water
Cucumber Water, much like lemon water, is another common way to increase your daily water intake. This water is also a hit in the dining halls. Students usually avoid the soda machine when this water is out on display.
Berry Water
Berry-Infused Water is a simple water to make with whichever berries you choose. This infused water may strengthen immunity as well as help with brain health.
Making infused water is simple!
Chop, slice, or cube freshly washed vegetables, fruit, or herbs, then add half cup to one full cup of the washed ingredients into a quart of fresh, plain water. Refrigerate the water overnight to allow the flavors to infuse.
For even more flavor, herbs can be added to the water, or the ingredients can be muddled. Also, keep in mind that fruits and vegetables will last about 2 to 3 days before they start breaking down.
Do you have a favorite infused water you like in your dining hall?
Post it on social media and hashtag it with your school’s name along with your favorite infused water.
Happy Drinking!
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