Drink More Water

With the temperatures going ever higher, this week's post focuses on making sure your body stays hydrated.

So many of us grab for the first cold thing that sounds good, soda, energy drinks, lemonade, fruit juice, sweet tea, or a beer. And while in moderation, some of these choices aren't terrible, they are definitely not a good choice for real hydration on a hot day.

In fact, we recently read on Yahoo Shine that, "A study out of Tufts University in Boston looked at the association between sugar-sweetened drinks and the nutritional habits of 947 adults. Unsurprisingly, those who drank the most sugary beverages, like soda, had a higher risk of obesity and a lower intake of fiber. 

But water is so boring. Or is it? Instead of picking up a packet of artificially flavored anything to add to that water, instead infuse it with something interesting.

1. Cucumber Water.
Theres a reason that so many spas slice up cucumbers, add it to a pitcher of water, and chill it for a few hours. Because when guests try it, they find a refreshing, slightly more interesting drink that tastes like the perfect way to relax.

2. Strawberry-Kiwi Water.
For a hint of something sweet, slice up a small carton of strawberries and  2 peeled, sliced kiwi, add it to a liter of water and allow to chill in the fridge for a few hours before serving. This is a great way to get a little bit of sweet without the calories of a soda.

3. Mint Tea.
Instead of sweet tea, grab a bunch of mint leaves. (Literally, a bunch, sold at your local grocery store or farmer's market.) Pour boiling water over mint and allow to cool. Pour over ice for a minty, refreshing summer tea, minus all the empty sugary calories.

So, when feeling parched, be prepared, have one of these hydrating, delicious, infused waters on hand.