While we all know there are major benefits to drinking more water, water can be boring and make other beverages seem more tempting. As a lover of mixology, I’m always looking for a way to spice up my drinks – alcoholic or not!
I have a few go-to fav recipes (cucumber + lavender = happiness) and also got the scoop from leading NYC dermatologists who gave me some additional awesome ideas for infused water recipes that’ll pack a punch of flavor and add health and beauty benefits to your H2O! (Btw, if you’re new to infused water, it’s easy. Not only can you purchase an infuser bottle, you can also just chop up the ingredients and let them sit over night in a pitcher of water.)
Read on for some of my fav flavored water combos and get ready to 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, 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,” added 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,” said 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 over night. “This melon variety tastes great and is amazing for your skin,” said 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,” said Dr. Calapai. “Mint actually contains salicylic acid, a potent acne fighter,” said 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 added.
Cucumber Lavender
This is one of my absolute favorites! I add cucumber and lavender to just about anything. And luckily, this combo is really good for you, too! “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 explained.
Pineapple Coconut Water
This one is almost cheating… almost. 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 rehydrates 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.”
Anyone else thirsty now? Cheers!