With the weather getting warmer, hydration is so key. In fact, about 60% of our body is made of water. Dehydration can leave us feeling fatigued or dizzy and even lead to headaches or constipation. People often mistake the sensation of thirst for hunger, so keeping yourself well hydrated can help keep those random midday cravings at bay too.
Women should aim for about 11.5 cups of fluids per day, while men should aim for about 15.5 cups per day, but each person’s water needs may vary based on activity, climate and overall heath. I often find that the people I work with are not drinking anywhere near how much water they need to be. Oftentimes this is because people are going about their busy day and forget to drink but sometimes it’s simply because people get bored of the taste of water. Jazzing up your water with some flavorful herbs and fruits can really help make water so much more interesting and exciting to drink!
Whether your goal is to up your hydration or you’re simply looking for some new alcohol-free beverages, check out the recipes below from me and my colleagues. They are delicious, super easy and as always with the recipes I share, they are balanced for your blood sugar, so you won’t find any sugary mixers or large portions of juice in them. Cheers!
Watermelon Mint Cucumber Cooler
by Jackie Topol, MS, RD, CDN, CLT
Add 1 cup of frozen watermelon cubes, 1/2 of a sliced Persian cucumber, and 6 mint (or basil) leaves to a large glass filled with ice. Top with seltzer or water and let infuse for about 1 hour and enjoy!
Lemon-Blueberry Kombucha Mocktail
recipe/photo credit: Maria Adams, MS, MPH, RDN, LDN
Raspberry Mojito Mocktail
recipe/photo credit: Nicole Stevens, MSc, RD
Lemon Cucumber Ginger Mint Water
recipe/photo credit: Monica Nedeff, RDN
Kombucha Mocktails with Muddles Peas and Mint
recipe/photo credit: Lizzie Streit, MS, RDN
Sparkling Cranberry Lime Rosemary Mocktail
recipe/photo credit: Andrea Mathis, MA, RDN, LD
Peppermint Pick Me Up Mocktail
recipe/photo credit: Mary Ellen Phillips, MPH, RDN, LD