Not Your Ordinary Water

Let’s face it, some people just don’t love the taste of plain water (myself included). At AICR’s Annual Research Conference this year, the tables were adorned with water pitchers filled with beautiful fruits and vibrant herbs – “Infused Waters.” I didn’t have to force myself to drink water like I usually do – these waters were so appealing that I went back for more.

The water with fresh strawberries and mint leaves was refreshing and ever so slightly sweet. Here’s how to make it:

1.   Slice 1/2 cup fresh strawberries

2.   Select several sprigs of fresh mint and rinse if needed

Add to 1-2 quarts of fresh, cold water and refrigerate for several hours to let flavors mingle. The longer you let it soak (even up to a day), the more prominent the flavors will become.

The pitcher of lemon and basil water was just as unique and delicious:

1.   Slice 1 whole lemon

2.   Select 1/4 – 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves

Add to 1-2 quarts of fresh, cold water and refrigerate as in the previous recipe. This water reminded me of a fragrant, summer herb garden.

Keep reading….

Flavoring your water with fruits and herbs is a great way to drink more water – you can still get great taste, without the added calories typical of many drinks. Sodas, sports drinks and even fruit juice, can be high in calories and sugar. Too many of these can lead to overweight and obesity (adding 2 cans of coke a day could mean 3 pounds weight gain a month) which increases risk for many common cancers.

Use fruits in season to save money. Buying flavored beverages can get expensive, but not if you are making them yourself with seasonal ingredients! Lemons are inexpensive year-round, so they are always a good fruit to keep on hand. Or, if you want something more warming for winter, try this Cinnamint Green Tea recipe.

What are your naturally flavored water ideas?

Sliced cucumber with a fresh sprig of rosemary in an ice cold pitcher of water is coming to mind…

Sonja Goedkoop is a master’s student/dietetic intern with an interest in lifestyle modification for obesity and chronic disease prevention.