But I don't like water!
Updated: Oct 24, 2022
I hear this A LOT .... and I get it.
We can talk about the importance of water for hydration .... and how it is cheap and accessible but, if you're trying to give up your less healthy beverages, I can understand why plain old water just mightn't quite hit the mark for you.
An alternative to adding sugar-free cordial could also give you a nutrient boost .... fantastically flavoursome water infusions.
By infusing your water with fresh fruits, herbs and even some vegetables, you can be guaranteed a perfect pop of flavour without any of the artificial colours, flavourings, extra sugar or other additives that you'll typically find in the shop-bought versions.
As an added bonus, you may also be giving yourself an added dose of vitamins and minerals.
Some great ingredients to add to water include:
Citrus Foods: Oranges, lemons and lime are strong flavours and the high vitamin C content will help support the immune system, heart and skin health and help with lowering blood pressure.
Cucumber: Helps relieve symptoms of bloating and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Berries: Rich in anti-oxidants, boost brain function and cardiovascular health, and help regulate blood sugar.
Watermelon: High in lycopene, which is important to cardiovascular and bone health. Watermelon also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Ginger: Adds a warm spicy flavour whilst aiding digestion, reducing bloating and helping with nausea.
Fresh Basil: Has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Fresh Mint: Is a great digestive aid and also has anti-inflammatory properties.
If you're ready to infuse your water, you could try with these amazing combinations:
For each recipe you'll need:
2 litres of water
handful of ice cubes (optional)
Strawberry Infused Water
4-6 strawberries, hulled and quartered
½ lemon, sliced
Small handful of fresh basil, scrunched to release oils
Ginger Lemon Infused Water
1 cucumber, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
2 inches fresh ginger, sliced or grated
Watermelon Infused Water
2 slices of watermelon cut into quarters
Small handful of fresh mint, scrunched to release oils
Citrus Cucumber Infused Water
1 orange, sliced
½ lime, sliced
½ large cucumber sliced
1 handful fresh mint, scrunched to release juices
Blueberry Orange Infused Water
35g blueberries
1 orange, sliced
Directions:
1. Select the best produce you can for your infused water.
2. Wash the produce and peel if desired. Removing the peel from citrus fruits will help avoid the bitter flavour that can comes from the rind.
3. Place all ingredients into a large glass jug or several mason jars. Add the water and allow to sit at room temperature for a few hours or in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to infuse the flavours into the water.
4. Pour water into a glass using a strainer if you don’t want floaties in your water and enjoy!
You can continue adding water to the jug for up to three days.
After that you should discard the fruit and start afresh.
Experiment with your own combinations and be sure to share your flavours!