By Lynne Young, CHC
How often do you hear those words? As evidence continues to show that water is still the best way to hydrate during any season, it’s usually not enough to entice the soft drink lovers to indulge in it. I was recently reminded of this when we had friends drop in for the afternoon. As I offered something to drink (water, infused iced tea, or sparkling mineral water) I was quickly reminded that not everyone is ready to give up their soda and sports drink habits. What I did find, is by trying a new twist on an age old drink, you can get even the pickiest drinkers asking for “more water please”. Water is an essential nutrient to our health, and as the best hydrator, detoxifying drink, and thirst quencher, creating delicious variations just may make it a “hit” at your next holiday barbecue.
Sports drinks have been the popular summer choice among kids, parents, and athletes. Kids find it difficult to refuse with the bright array of colors, while many adults may be convinced by the marketing that it’s a “must have” drink to have in the pantry for the summer months to maintain electrolytes during those outdoor activities. After all, what can be the harm in drinking something with a name like “sports drink”?
The fact is that although they contain minerals like potassium and sodium (aka electrolytes), that can be depleted during extreme activity; they also contain ingredients ranging from high fructose corn syrup, other added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and artificial coloring. The bottom line is that many contain high calories, high sugar, and artificial ingredients (including food coloring/dyes) that may have negative impacts on health, focus, and even behavior.
For your July 4th celebration or any other summer activity, try creating your own color and flavor packed drink by adding fruit, berries, or cucumbers and herbs for a delicious, refreshing twist. If you have soda lovers in your home, buy some carbonated water (seltzer or carbonated mineral water) and add fruit to it. You can also add some frozen grapes, strawberries, or blueberries as ice. I’ve found this to be a big hit with the little ones!
Another fun way to serve is to line up mason jars with different variations. Who can refuse those beautiful clear glasses with the vibrant colors of fruit shining through the glistening water? . Remember, being creative and coming up with your own variations is half the fun! We’d love to hear your favorites…
Here are some recipe ideas to create in a pitcher of water (1.5 – 2 litres)
Orange Strawberry Mint
- 4-5 strawberries (large, sliced)
- 1/2 orange (sliced into wedges)
- 6 spearmint leaves (hand torn)
Blueberry Lemon
- 1 lemon (sliced thin, then cut slices in half)
- Blueberries
- 4-5 spearmint leaves (hand torn)
Cucumber Refresher
- 6 thin slices of organic cucumbers
Watermelon Cooler
- 5-6 slice of fresh watermelon (cut in small chunks or slices)
