We all know the benefits of drinking more water, but let’s face it: water is boring. We talked to the experts who gave us six fresh infused water recipes that’ll pack a punch of flavor and add health and beauty benefits to your H2O!
Making infused water is easy. Chop up the ingredients, let them sit overnight in your water pitcher, and sip your way to healthy hydration, inside and out.
1. Mango Ginger
Adding the health benefits of ginger and the antioxidant power of mangoes is a surprisingly tasty mix! “Mangoes contain so many vitamins that help boost your immune system. It has antioxidants that maintain youthful glowing skin and aid in the production of blood cells,” says Christopher Calapai, D.O., an anti-aging expert and long-time health advisor to the New York Rangers hockey team. “Ginger is also helpful in fighting infection, has been linked to lower cholesterol levels, may reduce muscle aches, and helps digestion,” adds Calapai.
2. Grapefruit Rosemary
Researchers have recently discovered that rosemary is a main ingredient eaten by residents of an Italian village with one of the highest populations of people who live past 100. “Rosemary improves circulation and sends more blood to the brain, which is linked to greater concentration and potentially reduces risk of Alzheimer’s,” says Calapai. Grapefruit is a natural fat burner, boosts metabolism, and cleanses your liver.
3. Melon Mix
Simply add watermelon, honeydew, and cantaloupe chunks to a pitcher of water. “These melons taste great and are amazing for your skin,” says Dr. Kally Papantoniou, board certified dermatologist and clinical instructor at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York. “Melons are immensely hydrating, meaning more hydration per cup of water. They are also chock-full of antioxidants that keep skin clear, plus they contain vitamins that promote collagen production which helps skin cell turnover.”
4. Citrus Mint
Slice your favorite citrus fruits and add some crushed mint. “Mint is refreshing, improves digestive health, and can speed up your metabolism,” says Calapai. “Mint also contains salicylic acid, a potent acne fighter,” says Papantoniou. “It’s well known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which work to calm irritation both on your skin and internally,” she adds.
5. Cucumber Lavender
“The reason so many spas use cucumber-based treatments is because it contains many skin-friendly minerals like magnesium, potassium and silicon,” says Papantoniou. “This mix is especially healthy,” says Calapai. “Cucumbers are powerful detoxifiers, flushing out any waste in your system. Adding crushed lavender to the mix not only adds a beautiful aroma but can also help digestion. Lavender contains polyphenols that reduce bad bacteria in your gut, making your system run smoother,” he explains.
6. Pineapple Coconut Water
Get your favorite store-bought raw coconut water and refrigerate overnight with large chunks of pineapple. The coconut-pineapple flavor combo is delicious and reminiscent of a piña colada without all the sugar and calories. Although this is not pure H2O, coconut water contains electrolytes that plain water does not, which rehydrate you in record time. “Pineapple is yet another fruit that aids in collagen production,” says Papantoniou. “This is not just great for beautiful skin; collagen also has a major role in bone health and tissue repair.”
See? Water doesn't have to be boring. Drink up!
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