Add Flavor, But No Calories, To Your Water

I like water. I do. And yet, the idea of eight glasses each day (and more when it’s hot) can be daunting.

Even adding lemon isn’t quite enough sometimes. Here are a few suggestions to spice up your water routine without adding additional calories.

Cucumbers: These refreshing veggies pack quite a bit of subtle flavor. Try slicing cucumbers thin and adding them to water as you would lemon slices. Cucumber water is a popular treat in spas, which is no surprise, considering the beauty benefits. Known for its high water content, cucumbers reduce puffy eyes and are great for relieving sunburns. Each serving gives us a nice array of vitamin A, C, K, B6, folate, and thiamin.

Ginger: Hot or cold, adding ginger to water offers a variety of health benefits in addition to flavor. Ginger has long been used as a cure for nausea and a helpful digestive aid. It enhances our immune system, offering protection from colds before we catch them, and helps with symptoms after.

While many of spend the summer outdoors to get exercise, adding ginger to our diets helps combat cholesterol by inhibiting its absorption into our bodies. Try boiling four to six thin slices of fresh, raw ginger in two cups of water for 10 minutes. For stronger tea, add more ginger slices and boil for 20 minutes. Adding lime juice, honey or agave nectar can sweeten the tangy ginger bite and make for a refreshing summer drink.

Fresh Fruit: We know about lemons and limes, but what about other nice summer fruit? Watermelon, raspberries or strawberry slices add a light sweet flavor to water and boost vitamins. Watermelon brings vitamin A and C, both of which are great for reducing inflammation, and lycopene, a cancer fighter and antioxidant. Berries are also high in antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties and vitamin C. Strawberry season peaks in June, but raspberries are ripe and ready this month.

Why not try a combination? Raspberries and mint, strawberry and lemon slices, a blend of seasonal berries: the possibilities are endless and a sure way to keep you sipping through hot summer months.