It's supposed to be a hot one out there this summer, and while it's a great idea to get outside and enjoy the weather before the gloom and rain comes back, it's important to be safe as well: find shade, wear hats, avoid sun stroke and above all, hydrate.
While it's tempting to just fill yourself with patio craft beers all summer, it is really important to make sure that you also nourish your body and get some other liquids in there. The most important and vital one being water. Good old fashion water.
Our bodies are made of mostly water and the proper balance of electrolytes and water can determine how some of our systems function, such as our nerves and muscles. In our saliva and stomach secretions it helps digest food, and in sweat it removes toxins and body heat generated during exercise.
Water is also critical for heart health: keeping well-hydrated means that your heart is able to pump more blood smoothly through your blood vessels to your muscles, helping them remove waste so they can work more efficiently.
In other words, the more hydrated you are, the less work your heart has to do.
Water is the easiest and cheapest form of liquid used for hydration. Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to work properly, your body uses water to maintain its temperature, remove waste and lubricate joints among many other valuable functions.
Water is not only one of the best sources for hydration, but it’s also delicious. Yes, you may roll your eyes while sipping on your latest home-brewed creation, but I still say the water is the way. And there is so much you can do with it if you find it’s classic flavour boring or outdated.
Here are a few ingredients you can add to perk up with your daily doses.
Lemon
Squeeze some of this delightful citrus juice into your first morning glass, it will provide you with not only flavour, but it will help in aiding your digestion, as well as cleanse your liver.
Mint
This invigorating herb will also aid in your digestion process, reduce your inflammation and it is a great palate cleanser. Also it tastes delicious, just think mojito, but without the hangover.
Rosemary
Not only does it provide a great taste and aroma, but it can also help to increase your circulation and stimulate your immune system. To me, that sounds like a good time.
Lavender
Lavender is not only known for its amazing aroma, but it also helps with stress, anxiety and sleep. And let’s face it, we could all use a little bit of calm in our lives.
Berries
Craving something fruity? Berries have you covered, they provide great flavour a bit of texture and tons of antioxidants, and you can eat the fruit after. How can you go wrong?
Fruity Lime Water
Ingredients:
10 cups of water
A handful of strawberries (chopped or whole)
8 mint leaves
Juice of one lime (keep the actual lime to add into the water)
Directions:
• Mix all ingredients together in a jug/container large enough to hold 10 cups of water.
• Cover jug/container and place in fridge overnight.
