The virtues of vitamin enhanced water

You’ve probably seen all the vitamin-enhanced water pictures on Instagram. Why this craze you ask? Probably because it’s easy to make and good for you, too! It’s great for those who either don’t like water or who aren’t used to drinking it. Simply add a dash of originality and your favourite flavours and you’ve got a reason to stay hydrated.

Why drink water?

We all know it’s important to stay hydrated, but we don’t always drink enough. Our bodies are made up of over 60% water. Drinking water helps maintain the equilibrium of body fluids. These fluids help with digestion, circulation, absorption, saliva production, nutrient flow, and they also regulate body temperature.

Why add fruits and herbs?

Fresh fruits and vegetables, preferably in season, provide vitamins and antioxidants in each refreshing sip. As to fresh herbs, they contain more phytonutrients than most fruits and vegetables. That’s why they’re often added to vitamin waters. They offer particularly high anti-inflammatory and antifungal benefits and can lower blood pressure (basil), aid digestion (mint), and improve memory (rosemary).

Which fruit is best suited for vitamin water?

You want to go with fruits that are high in taste and vitamins and that won’t disintegrate after soaking a little in some water. Avoid bananas and pears. Opt for berries and citrus. Dried fruits are great too, like goji berries or dried ground cherries.

Tips

To remove as much residue as possible from fruits and vegetables, I recommend washing them well first. Add a few tablespoons of white vinegar to a bowl of water and scrub to clean (and above all, try to choose organic fruits and vegetables). I generally use leftover fruit, vegetables and herbs from my smoothies: orange bits, a lemon quarter, a few sprigs of rosemary, etc. I let it all steep in water either 30 minutes or overnight before drinking.

Making your own vitamin enhanced water

To prepare vitamin water, use a glass jar or pitcher. Add fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Fill with enough water to cover all ingredients. Refrigerate at least 6 hours for flavours to fully come out (or less for a milder version). Then separate water from solids with a nylon filter or sieve. Your water is now ready to drink boosted with a little extra vitamin and a fruity taste!

Here are my four favourite blends:

1. pomegranate, lemon, orange and mint
2. raspberry, rosemary, apple and chlorophyll
3. orange, cucumber, cranberries and hibiscus
4. kiwi, strawberries, basil and apple

  Audrey Sckoropad