It's said that the body is comprised of over 50% water, and good old H20 covers about 71% of the earth's surface. Water's said to be older than the sun itself, falling just past around 4.6 billion years old.
There's certainly no secret to the health benefits of a cool glass of this favorite fluid. It's been proven to help weight loss, body functions, and more. If you have a hard time gulping down what your body needs, or just want to update your cup, give the hip trend of DIY water infusion a try.
Not only can you get the health benefits of water, but potentially some of the extra nutrients and benefits of what you add in. Here's how:
1. Pick A Stylish Pitcher: Nothing makes everything more fun and doable than a little design and style. By snapping up a chic pitcher that meets your needs and taste, you'll enjoy using it for your infused water endeavors all the more. Be sure to think through how much water you want to infuse, and select your pitcher size accordingly. If you prefer to drink it fresh made, opt for something that will hold solely the water amount you need. If you want the water to soak up the ingredients a bit, or don't think you'll drink all the water you make, opt for a pitcher that has a lid so you can stow it in the fridge. Beverage dispensers can also work for this if you have the space, though because you'll have fresh ingredients in your water, opt for something that can fit in your fridge comfortably. Pitcher, Jonathan Alder, at Shopbop.com
2. Choose Your Water: Bottled and filtered waters tend to be most ideal, so if you don't have a filter at home consider investing in a filtration product. You'll find pitchers that do the work, or add-on devices that fit directly on the tap. Consider using a separate pitcher for your infusion once the water has been filtered. When it comes to your water choice, don't forget that pre-infused waters can also work! It'll add an extra punch to the flavoring as you mix in fresh ingredients, or you can play with interesting combinations. Flavored water, Hint
3. Add Your Ingredients: Now comes the cool part. You can get as creative as you want with whatever you add in. Common fruits and vegetables used in fresh infusions include lemons, limes, oranges, cucumbers, and watermelon. But, the sky really can be the limit. Apples, grapefruit, passion fruit, pomegranate, and plenty of other items can also work. Then, you've got items like sage, mint, rosemary, and other herbs. Seasonings such as salt, red pepper flakes and other spices have made it to water infusions for their health benefits and properties. Slicing ingredients is most ideal to release their natural juices and flavorings. It'll also make it easier for the fruit to pour out of the pitcher. Slice items into reasonably sized pieces -- not too big, not too small. You can nibble on them once you've finished your water as you'll find plenty at the bottom of the glass or pitcher.