The beverage that you need this summers is actually a home made, do-it-yourself refreshment. It’s not only cheap, it will also keep the excess sugar and preservatives at bay. Scroll down to read the recipes!
A mellow
Water is the single most important nutrient, period. About 60 to 70% of the human body is made of water; and it’s required for every single bodily process, including circulation, digestion, and regulating your temperature. So making good old H2O your beverage of choice is a no-brainer. But aside from keeping you properly hydrated, a solid water habit may create a healthy domino effect, too.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that people who obtained much of their daily liquids from plain water rather than other beverages had healthier diets overall, with more fiber and less sugar. Upping your water intake may even offer a weight-loss edge: German researchers found that drinking 2 cups of H2O increased metabolic increased metabolic rate by 30% within 10 minutes; and the effect lasted for more than an hour. If you drink 2 cups four times a day, the uptick in your metabolism could mean you burn an extra 95 extra calories a day, which is the amount you’d burn on a 20-minute walk.
Ok, so you know all the benefits of drinking more water. But what if you’re not crazy about the taste? Infusing your water with fruits, veggies, herbs, and spices is a great way to create flavor (without any processed powders or artificial sweeteners). And as a bonus, you’ll be adding vitamin, minerals, and antioxidants too.
Below are seven of my favorite ways to perk up a pitcher. Stir any of the following combinations into eight cups of water, chill in the fridge overnight, and then sip away. (Strain before pouring if you don’t want floaty bits in your glass.) Discard the mixture after 24 hours.
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