It’s beena week or so since we started this challenge… Are you pumped and participating? Or have you grown tired of hearing …
If you’re finding it difficult to keep up your water consumption because you think it lacks taste, try infused water! Infusing your water with fruits, vegetables, and herbs provides some extra nutrients for your body, while at the same time adds some flavor to make it more appealing.
Water + Extra Nutrients = a Win-Win for your Health!
The process for infusing your own water is simple, but there are a few suggestions to keep in mind:
CHOICES –
- Use Filtered Water. While tap water is okay, using filtered water will greatly enhance the quality and flavor of your infused water and it is generally much cleaner than water from the tap.
- Ensure the Water is Room Temperature or Colder. Warm or hot water will reduce the amount of nutrients as the fruits and vegetables will disintegrate at a faster rate.
- Organic Fruits and Vegetables are Recommended. This ensures that there are likely far fewer fertilizers and other chemicals on the chosen produce. It may also make for a better flavor as well.
PREPARATION –
- Wash or rinse all fruits and vegetables to remove chemicals or other debris
- Crush any herbs with a muddler to facilitate oil release (except for leafy herbs like mint or basil)
- Slice fruits and veggies in half or quarters. For harder items like cucumbers or apples, multiple thin slices are needed
- Identify a container that is BPA-free and food safe – a glass pitcher is recommended to keep the water more fresh. You may want to purchase a pitcher or cup specifically designed for infusing, but it’s not necessary
PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER –
- First add all sliced fruits and vegetables, along with your crushed and/or leafy herbs to your chosen container.
- Next, add room temperature (or cold) water on top and fill to the top.
- Allow the water to infuse for at least 2 hours at room temperature, or 4-6 hours in the refrigerator. For the most flavorful results, allow the infusion to continue overnight.
ENJOY THE FINISHED PRODUCT!
Once the infusion process is complete, enjoy your water within 2 days, though the first day is typically best. By the 3rd day, some nutrients may have lost their effectiveness. Be sure to remove the fruits and vegetables by the 2nd day at the most. If you do finish your water the same day, you can refill it two or 3 times with some flavor still coming through.
What are your favorite kinds of produce to use for Infused Water? Share with our group for inspiration!
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