The benefits of infused water with fruit complement its flavor and variety!
Staying hydrated is essential for our overall health, but many of us don’t drink enough.
If you struggle with water intake, then fruit infused water might be for you!
Fruit Infused Water Explained
Infused water involves adding slices of fresh fruit to water. This allows their flavors and nutrients to seep into the water.
The result is a delicious drink that hydrates and provides additional health benefits.
Health Benefits
Infused water with fruit has numerous health benefits that support healthy aging.
- Improved hydration: Adding fruit to your water can make it more flavorful and enjoyable, encouraging you to drink more!
- Decreased inflammation: Certain fruits, such as berries and citrus fruits, contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation throughout the body.
- Increased nutrients: By adding fruit to your water, you can increase your intake of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients found in fruits.
- Improved digestion: Some fruits, such as lemon and ginger, can aid in digestion and alleviate digestive issues like bloating and constipation.
- Boosted immunity: Many fruits are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that can help strengthen your immune system and protect against diseases.
- Reduced cravings: Infused water with fruit can help to reduce cravings for sugary drinks or snacks by providing a healthy and flavorful alternative.
Preparation & Storage
Follow the tips below to create delicious, nutritious infused waters –
- Choose ripe fruits: Ripe fruits produce the best flavor. Overripe fruits may not add as much flavor and can also make the water cloudy.
- Wash fruits thoroughly: Make sure to wash all fruits and herbs thoroughly before adding them to the water to remove any dirt or pesticides.
- Cut fruits into small pieces: Cut fruit releases more flavor into the water. You can also crush herbs with your hands before adding them to the water to release their oils.
- Let water infuse for several hours: Infuse for several hours or even overnight in the refrigerator. This will allow the flavors to meld together and create a more flavorful and refreshing drink.
- Store in the refrigerator: Once your water is ready, store it in the refrigerator. Infused water can last up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator, but it’s best to consume it within 24 hours for maximum freshness.
Fruit Infused Water Recipes
Below are a few fruit-infused water combinations to try –
- Strawberry and Mint Water: Cut 6-8 strawberries in half and add to a pitcher of water with a handful of fresh mint leaves. Let infuse for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Pineapple and Ginger Water: Peel and slice 1 small pineapple and chop 1 inch of fresh ginger. Add to a pitcher of water and let infuse for at least 4 hours before serving.
- Orange and Blueberry Water: Slice 1 orange and add to a pitcher of water with 1/2 cup of fresh blueberries. Let infuse for at least an hour before serving.
- Watermelon and Basil Water: Cut 1/2 cup of watermelon into small cubes and add to a pitcher of water with a handful of fresh basil leaves. Let infuse for at least an hour before serving.
- Apple and Cinnamon Water: Slice 1 apple and add to a pitcher of water with 1 cinnamon stick. Let infuse for at least an hour before serving.
- Lemon and Cucumber Water: Slice 1 lemon and 1/2 cucumber and add to a pitcher of water. Let infuse for at least an hour before serving.
Check out these 23 fruit infused water concoctions from Taste of Home for more inspiration!
Fruit Infuser Water Bottles
There are water bottles available that are perfect for infused water. Here are a few options that you might want to consider:
Ready to Drink Options
There are many ready to drink options. Here are a few popular brands –
- Hint Water: This brand offers a variety of fruit infused water flavors, including watermelon, blackberry, and peach.
- Bai Antioxidant Infusions: This brand offers a variety of antioxidant infused water flavors, including strawberry lemonade, pineapple, and mango.
- Vitamin Water Zero: This brand offers a variety of fruit infused water flavors, including lemonade, strawberry kiwi, and dragonfruit.
- Propel Water: This brand offers a variety of flavored water options, including lemon, berry, and grape.
- Nestle Splash: This brand offers a variety of fruit infused water flavors, including strawberry, wild berry, and lemon.
Check the nutrition labels to ensure that the fruit infused water you choose does not contain added sugars or artificial ingredients.
Check out this previous Age-Defying Dietitian blog post Wellness Drinks: A Complete Guide for more beverages that support healthy aging!
Takeaways
In conclusion, fruit-infused water is a healthy and refreshing way to hydrate, while also reaping some additional health benefits.
Try out your own recipes at home, or enjoy a ready-to-drink option!
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Kathryn is a Registered Dietitian and a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach. She is also Certified through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Weight Management.