As we age, our sense of thirst may diminish, making it easy to forget to drink enough water. For some, drinking plain water seems boring, leading to inadequate hydration. This is where flavour-infused water comes in—a simple yet effective solution to make drinking water more enjoyable. Ready for some tips on jazzing up your next glass?
The Importance of Staying Hydrated
Proper hydration helps maintain proper kidney function, supports digestion, and aids cognition, among other things. For seniors, hydration plays a pivotal role in preventing issues such as urinary tract infections, constipation, and even confusion or fatigue.
Dehydration can pose serious risks, including dizziness, which could increase the risk of falls, a common concern for older adults. In contrast, flavour-infused water not only helps maintain adequate hydration levels but also adds a refreshing twist to plain water, making it more appealing and enjoyable to drink.
Easy and Delicious Flavour-Infused Water Recipes
Here are some simple, tasty recipes that can be made with ingredients you likely already have at home:
Citrus and Mint Delight
Ingredients:
- 1 sliced lemon
- 1 sliced lime
- A handful of fresh mint leaves
Preparation Steps:
- Combine the lemon and lime slices with the mint leaves in a pitcher.
- Add water and let it sit for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator.
Health Benefits:
Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which can boost the immune system. Mint aids in digestion by soothing the stomach.
Berry Basil Bliss
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of mixed berries
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
Preparation Steps:
- Lightly crush the berries to release their juices before placing them in a pitcher.
- Add basil leaves and fill the pitcher with water. Let it infuse in the fridge for a couple of hours.
Health Benefits:
Berries are packed with antioxidants, which are essential for brain health, and basil has anti-inflammatory properties.
Cucumber Lavender Refresh
Ingredients:
- 1 sliced cucumber
- A few sprigs of lavender
Preparation Steps:
- Add cucumber slices to a pitcher along with the lavender.
- Fill the pitcher with water and chill in the fridge for 1-2 hours.
Health Benefits:
Cucumbers are hydrating and good for the skin, while lavender is known for its calming effects, potentially improving sleep quality.
Tips for Making Water More Appealing
Customizing flavour-infused water is simple and can be a fun way to experiment with different tastes. Try combining various fruits and herbs to discover your favourite flavours. Using seasonal and local ingredients ensures freshness. For the best taste, store your infused water in the refrigerator and consume it within 24-48 hours. To make your hydration experience feel special, consider serving your infused water in a beautiful glass with ice, turning it into a refreshing treat.
Need Help in the Kitchen? Call Senior Helpers!
Flavour-infused water is a delightful way to stay hydrated and an easy way to add some zest to your daily water intake. By enhancing plain water with fruit and herbs, you can enjoy both improved hydration and a host of potential health benefits. Try these recipes! We hope they inspire you to create your own unique combinations!
Could you use a hand creating nutritious meals? If you live in Killarney, Kitsilano, Marpole, Champlain Heights, Vancouver, or nearby areas, contact us at Senior Helpers Vancouver for information about our in-home care services.