Infusing water with fruits and vegetables actually helps many people drink more water and stay hydrated. Making water tastier is a big deal for those who’d rather reach for juices or soft drinks to quench their thirst.
But there are more benefits to infusing your water than just adding flavor. Here are a few things you can infuse in water and the advantages of each.
Lemon
It’s common at most restaurants to be served water with lemon. And while it’s definitely tasty, lemon water has lots of other wonderful benefits.
Lemon and other citrus fruits are high in vitamin C, providing immune system support and protection against free radicals that can contribute to some diseases. Vitamin C also improves skin quality, fighting wrinkles and dryness.
Lemon water is also said to aid in weight loss, insulin resistance and the digestive process. And what’s more, water infused with lemon freshens your breath. So, after a cup of coffee or a basket of garlic knots, drink lemon water to neutralize the “situation”.
Mint
Obviously, mint will leave your mouth feeling fresh and clean, too – so, what else can mint infused water do?
Mint (like peppermint and spearmint) are beneficial to the treatment of ailments like asthma, allergies and headaches. When your nose feels blocked or there’s pressure in your sinuses, a bit of mint water should help.
When you cleanse your palate with mint water, you’re activating enzymes that improve digestion and ease an upset stomach. Mint can also be seen as a cognitive stimulant for better memory retention and alertness. And like lemon, mint can also contribute to weight loss.
Ginger
It’s rather well-known that a can of ginger ale will ease an aching stomach. Well, it’s because of the ginger, not the ale.
Ginger water helps with pain and nausea associated with headaches and problems with your gut. There are also studies to suggest it reduces cholesterol and helps control blood sugar, both of which can be attributed to weight loss.
Cucumber
Adding cucumber slices to your water creates the perfect refreshment. But in addition to the cool, crisp taste, cucumbers are rich in nutrients that you can benefit from.
Cucumbers are full of vitamin B, potassium, magnesium and antioxidants which when infused with water could help to lower blood pressure and potentially fight cancer. In addition, you’ll also see anti-inflammatory effects.
What’s your favorite way to infuse water? Let us know in the comments.