Sugar makes it into a lot of our foods and drinks. Research shows that consumption of sugary drinks can put us at risk to long term negative health outcomes. In order to make better choices, we need to be aware of what is in our drinks. We can replace them with water to limit sugary drinks.
If you think water is too boring and lacks flavor, you can change it up with fruit infused water!
I have tried fruit infused water and enjoyed the multiple fruit combinations that can dress it up. It made me excited to drink water and made me excited to experiment with other flavors. This could easily be something that the kids could be involved in as the family shifts to drinking more water. They could suggest different flavor combinations with their favorite fruits. Try these steps so you and your family can get started!
- Fill a pitcher with cold water
- Add fresh fruits
- Adding fruits adds more minerals and vitamins to the water as well as taste.
- Some fruits that work well are lemons, oranges, strawberries, and cucumbers. Remember that fruits need to be properly washed and sliced.
- You can also add herbs to enhance the flavor even more.
- They would need to be contained in cheese cloth, tea ball, or a strainer. This keeps the herbs from floating around.
- When adding herbs, remember they have a strong flavor so a little bit of herbs can go a long way.
- Mint, basil, and lavender are popular herbs that work well.
- Place the pitcher in the fridge to chill and allow the fruits and herbs to be infused into the water for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Pour you and your family a cold glass and enjoy!
Some things to remember with fruit infused water is that it lasts for 2-3 days when refrigerated and it depends on what kind of fruit you use. Citrus fruits last longer than berries which start to break down in 1-2 days.
This way of dressing up your water with flavor and appearance makes you excited to drink water. Try it out with your family. Enjoy!
