I’ve been reading a number of articles that talk about the benefits of drinking water for health and beauty. I’d even written a post about the benefits of drinking water a while back. Drinking water can fill you up if you’re looking to drop a few pounds. It can help plump your skin. It helps maintain your metabolism. Its benefits are many. Doctors and nutritional experts tout the virtues of drinking more water but, let’s face it, drinking water can be boring. But that doesn’t mean you should reach for a sugary or caffeinated beverage to quench your thirst. Nope. Water is still your best bet. Check out the following tips from experts who gave EB six fresh infused water recipes that’ll pack a punch of flavor and add health and beauty benefits to your H2O. New to infused water recipes? Simply chop up the ingredients, let them sit overnight in your water pitcher and sip your way to healthy hydration inside and out.
Mango Ginger
This combo might seem weird, but 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 Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. a NYC 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 Dr. Calapai.
Grapefruit Rosemary
Recently rosemary was found to be the 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 Dr. Calapai. Grapefruit is not only delicious but it’s a natural fat burner, boosts metabolism and cleanses your liver.
Melon Mix
Cut up watermelon, honeydew and cantaloupe chunks and throw into your water overnight. “This melon variety tastes great and is 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.
Citrus Mint
Pick your favorite citrus fruits, cut up into slices and add some crushed mint. “Adding mint to your water is not only extra refreshing but also improves digestive health and can speed up your metabolism,” says Dr. Calapai. “Mint actually contains salicylic acid, a potent acne fighter,” says Dr. Papantoniou. “It’s also well known for it’s anti-inflammatory properties which work to calm irritation both on your skin or internally,” she adds.
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 Dr. Papantoniou. “This mix is especially healthy,” says Dr. 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 as lavender contains polyphenols that reduce bad bacteria in your gut, making your system run smoother,” he explains.
Pineapple Coconut Water
This one is almost cheating. Get your favorite store bought raw coconut water and refrigerate over night 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 which 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.”
Clearly there are benefits to keeping hydrated. Water does not have to be boring, it can be delicious. Drink up!
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:
What to Eat and Drink for Beauty and Health
Wearable Aromatherapy? It’s the Latest Thing.