Get Hydrated: Fruits and Vegetables to Add to Your Infused Water Recipes

There are many studies that vouch for the countless benefits of drinking water or getting hydrated as it is one of the easiest ways to boost immunity. At least eight glasses a day? Up to you, but some recommend at least half a gallon per day.

But let’s face it — plain water is just plain. If you’re sick and tired of flavorless water, zest it up with fruits or herbs! There are tons of infused water recipes on the net, but the easiest is putting sliced lemons and mint. I wanted to step up my zesty regime, so I recently visited a local fruit store and followed some recipes.

The great thing with infused water is that it is effortless: get fruits and herbs, mix them, and there you go! Fruits have fiber and certain levels of natural fructose, a type of simple sugar considered as a “safe sweetener” for people with type 2 diabetes. Having real fruits is definitely much better and healthier than powdery mixes with refined sugars.

Here’s a rundown of the health benefits of fruits, herbs, and vegetables, based on reputable health sources. You can check out the links for more details.
– Basil has high levels of antioxidants and essential oil compounds that boost immunity and protection from disease.
– Blueberries have natural plant compounds that have a powerful antioxidant effect, as well as essential minerals to help maintain healthy bones.
– Cantaloupe is a low-calorie fruit and a great source of vitamins A and C to protect eye health.
– Cucumber contains organic compounds that may help reduce the risk of several cancers.
– Lemons are a natural detoxifier that supports weight loss and promotes hydration.
– Lime helps rejuvenate the skin and fights infections.
– Mint is a popular aromatic herb that can work as a relaxant; it can help treat nausea and headache.
– Oranges contain fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and other minerals that support heart health.
– Peaches contain high levels of potassium to help metabolic processes and regulate muscular tissues.
– Pineapples have the recommended values of vitamin C and other minerals to help boost the immune and skeletal systems.
– Strawberries have fiber and fructose contents that can help regulate blood sugar levels.
– Watermelons have significant levels of lycopene and antioxidants that are linked to heart and bone health and prostate cancer prevention.

There’s a lot of mixes that you can do, but just remember that keep your infused water refrigerated and consume them immediately. Those natural compounds and minerals you can see above can react differently in certain temperatures, hence the mixture can become a water solution and turn acidic (giving it a sour taste akin to diluted vinegar).

Photos: Conger Design via Pixabay, Modernhoney.com
This post first appeared on beijingkids.