Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! We all know that we should be drinking plenty of water each day because it is the key to maintaining good health. Plain water is ideal. But if you’re tired of going plain, try infusing your water with fruit.
A few combinations you might like are:
- Strawberry/Basil/Lemon
- Honeydew/Cucumber/Mint
- Watermelon/Kiwi/Lime
- The combinations are endless
Infused water is easy to make. All you need is fresh produce (fruit, veggies and herbs) along with cold water. The amount of produce you use is up to you and the combinations will depend on the flavors you like. Infused water is best after 2 to 4 hours after it has been made.
Fruit Infused Water
Ingredients:
- Lots of fresh water – a quart or more (may use sparkling water too!)
- ½ cup strawberries, hulled (removal of the green leafy top of the strawberry) and sliced
- ¼ cup mango, diced
- ¼ cup blueberries
- 1 lime, sliced
- Handful of fresh mint
Preparation:
- Wash and slice fruit.
- Add all ingredients in a large pitcher and fill it to the top with water.
- Make as much as you want.
- Allow to sit for 2-4 hours for the flavors to develop.
Nutritional information serving size: 1 cup:Calories 0, Carbohydrates 0, Protein 0g, Fat 0g. If consuming the actual fruit there will be a minimal amount of carbohydrates and calories – it depends on how much water is added and how many portions there are.
About Amy Kimberlain
Amy Kimberlain is a registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator with Community Health at Baptist Health South Florida. She has 20 years of experience in nutrition and dietetics. Active in the community, Amy has contributed her expertise to various public health initiatives, including childhood obesity, diabetes and family health. She is an academy media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. Amy earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in nutrition and Spanish from Florida State University. She is also an avid runner and registered yoga teacher.