Americans’ consumption of soda is on the decline, according to a recent article by the New York Times. However sugar-sweetened beverages are still the biggest source of added sugar in the American diet. One way to stick to your New Year’s weight loss resolution is to switch to infused water. They are a tasty alternative to sugary drinks and a much healthier option!
Most infused water recipes follow the same preparation steps. Place ingredients in your glass or pitcher. Cover with ice, then fill with water. Refrigerate for at least an hour (or more for more flavor). You can refill the container a couple of times before the ingredients begin to lose flavor.
Here are a few delicious recipes for infused water:
The Original Day Spa Apple Cinnamon Detox Water
This recipe was originally made popular on Audrey Johns blog www.loseweightbyeating.com and has since been shared over a million times! Apples and cinnamon, according to the blog, can help raise your metabolism. So, raise your glass to weight loss and give it a try! Johns recommends using Fuji or Honey Crisp apples, as they are the sweetest.
Apple Cinnamon Detox Water
1 apple, thinly sliced and seed removed
1 cinnamon stick
Water and ice
Strawberry Spa Water
This infused water is too pretty to leave off our list. This recipe would be perfect for summer (or pretending it’s summer during the cold, winter months). It would also work great for a bridal shower or baby shower.
Strawberry Spa Water
Strawberries, hulled and sliced
Water and ice
Blueberry Lemon Water
The addition of rosemary makes this a fragrant infusion that fights inflammation and aids digestive health. If you are not a fan of rosemary, you could omit it and still have a very tasty infusion.
Handful of blueberries
2-3 thin lemon slices
Sprig of rosemary
Water and ice
You can make an infusion with any fruits (and even some vegetables…cucumber, anyone?) that you have on hand. You are only limited by your own creativity and palette. Once you find a recipe that you like, you can make a batch of it by the pitcher, as infused waters last a few days in the refrigerator.
Fruit-infused water is a great way to stay on track with your diet and avoid sugar-laden drinks!