Water…hydrating, replenishing, nourishing, juicy…but are you getting enough?

All the cells in our body need water for biochemical reactions, optimal function, detoxification and lubrication. Our bodies are made up mostly of water ,60-65% water, so staying hydrated is really important for your optimal health.  Do you feel sluggish throughout the day, have cramps, dry skin, urine infections, headaches, constipation? If so these may be signs that you are not getting enough water.

Some of the amazing qualities and reasons to drink water and stay hydrated include;

Increases your level of energy

Relieves chronic fatigue

Promotes weight loss…need I go on?

Water is so beneficial that I just have to tell more….

Improves your skin complexion; keeps your skin plush and hydrated and moist

Flushes out toxins by nourishing your kidneys one of the major detoxification centers in our body

Keeps you regular and free from bloating by lubricating the GI system.

Relieves cramps and headaches caused by lack of hydration.

Also, drinking water will help you to save money because water is free and as you know, lattes and juices and bottled beverages are not.

As an aside, did you know that Vitamin Water the bottled stuff in the store that claims to be full of life-giving vitamins and minerals actually isn’t? This should not actually come as a surprise since it is owned by Coca-Cola. I mean , the second ingredient is crystalline fructose aka corn syrup. So, you are basically drinking sugar water slightly fortified.

Also consider the beneficial impact on your body and the environment from drinking less bottled, store bought beverages, like less plastic, which I approve of and thus less hormone distruptors from the plastic and the BPA.

So let’s assess: less plastic, save money, better health…hmmm …How can you beat all of these juicy good reasons to drink water?

I have always told my clients to drink half their body weight in ounces daily. But for some people this can be super challenging. That’s why I am going to share with you some of my secrets on how to make your own delicious water. I am going to share delicious healthy water recipes so that your wallet , your body and your taste buds with be super happy!

You can make your own vitamin water at home and it will be natural, organic if you want, and personalized. You can make many more flavors than you could ever find in the store and it will be without any plastic or strange ingredients and color additives that are bad for you.

These recipes are using just fruits and herbs. YUM!

Fresh, ripe, in-season fruits provide your vitamins and antioxidants in a refreshing sip. And ounce for ounce, herbs contain more phytonutrients than almost all the produce sold in your supermarket. They are not only hydrating but can even lower blood pressure (basil), promote digestion (mint), improve memory (rosemary), relieve bloating (sage), prevent blood clot formation (tarragon), and even protect brain cells from free radicals (thyme). All that in a few little sprigs of herb. Wow!

So here are some recipes.

Spa Vitamin Water
Makes 2 liters

Ingredients

9 cups water
1 small cucumber, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
2 tablespoons minced mint

Citrus-Rosemary Vitamin Water
Makes 2 liters

Ingredients

9 cups water
1 small grapefruit, sliced
1 small orange, sliced
1 tablespoon minced rosemary

Berry-Sage Vitamin Water
Makes 2 liters

Ingredients

9 cups water
1 cup whole berries (blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, or a mix)
1 tablespoon minced sage

Watermelon-Lime-Mint Vitamin Water
Makes 2 liters

Ingredients

9 cups water
1 cup cubed watermelon
1 lime, sliced
2 tablespoons minced mint

You can infuse almost any fresh fruits and herbs together, so give a hand at your own combinations and go crazy with it. And if you find a recipe that you love, please share with me. I am always interested in other’s creative juices.

Stay cool and enjoy!