Whether you’re hoping to tackle a full-on New Year’s detox after indulging in festive food and alcohol or you find yourself mid-way through the year needing to embark on a health reset, try this easy win.
Rather than diving headfirst into a punishing exercise regime or restrictive diet, we’re suggesting you by making one small but powerful change: drink more water. After all, it’s the small changes that add up to a big difference.
Proper hydration is one sure-fire way to improve your energy levels, support weight loss, boost your immune system, and improve your digestion. Super-charge your water with vitamin- and mineral-packed fruits, vegetables and herbs and you have the go-to elixir for devoted health enthusiasts. Let’s dive into the refreshing world of detox water, where everyday H2O gets a vibrant makeover.
What is detox water?
Detox water is infused with specific fruits, veggies and herbs known to boost your body’s natural ability to eliminate toxins from your system. These natural ingredients also turn your regular sip into a nutrient-packed and delicious-tasting experience. And while drinking detox water won’t perform miracles, it brings a delightful twist to your water, making hydration more of a pleasure than a chore.
Why should I drink detox water?
Beyond the appeal of a flavored sip, detox water can contribute to your well-being. It’s a simple addition to your routine with potentially big perks that can help to:
- flush out toxins
- provide an energy boost
- and might even support losing weight.
The body’s detoxing system is powerful, with the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal system, respiratory tract, skin and lymphatic system playing critical roles. But the fast-paced world we live in can put our system under considerable pressure, making it difficult to eliminate toxins from highly processed foods, sugar, alcohol and the environment, such as pesticides, insecticides and “forever chemicals”. Helping your body flush out these toxins by upping your water intake may not only make you feel healthier physically, but may also help to lift your mood, energy and immune system.
Drinking detox water may also have a domino effect on your health. If you’re opting to drink more water, you’re more likely to eat more healthily than you normally do, too. Foods loaded with refined carbs, like white bread and pastries, can make our blood sugar spike, and then our energy levels may crash as our glucose levels slide back down. Eating more fruits, vegetables, and other whole foods may keep energy levels more consistent.
What are the benefits of lemon water?
Lemons in particular are known for pairing well with water, with their colorful skins and tart, refreshing taste. So, what is the benefit of drinking lemon water? Well, lemons are claimed to be the superhero of detox water, bringing some impressive upsides. Here are six of them:
1. Detoxifying
Lemons stimulate the release of enzymes and convert toxins into a form that can be easily excreted from the body.
2. Hydrating
Say goodbye to the dull sips – with lemon water, every gulp is a refreshing burst of goodness. Positively revitalizing!
3. Source of vitamin C
Need an extra dose of vitamin C? Lemons have you covered! These little yellow powerhouses are a fantastic source of vitamin C, giving your immune system the boost it deserves.
4. Can support skin health
Ever wondered why celebrities flaunt that radiant glow? It might just be their lemon water secret. Packed with antioxidants, lemon water supports skin health, fighting off those pesky free radicals, boosting collagen levels, and leaving you with a bright complexion.
5. Can aid digestion
Feeling a bit sluggish in the digestion department? Cue lemon water. Drinking it can help kickstart your digestive system, helping things move along smoothly. A 2019 study also suggests that life-long consumption of a drink rich in lemon polyphenols appeared to delay the age-related changes seen in the gut, such as changes in the balance of beneficial gut bacteria.
6. Could help prevent kidney stones
It’s believed that the citric acid in lemons can help prevent the formation of kidney stones, caused by a build-up of calcium oxalate, and the extra fluid from the water may help maintain hydration and flush out potential stones.
What else can I add to power up my water?
Water loves company, and you can experiment with various ingredients to create the perfect detox water to suit your taste and health goals. If you’ve ever wondered, for example, what are the benefits of cucumber and lemon water, we’ve got the lowdown here:
- Ginger: adds a zing, stimulates digestion and cleanses build-up of waste and toxins.
- Turmeric: has anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in antioxidants.
- Lime: offers a citrusy twist with additional vitamin C.
- Mint: packs a refreshing taste and aids digestion.
- Cucumber: high in vitamins A, B, and C, electrolytes, and potassium.
- Rosemary: has antioxidant and antibacterial properties.
How to make detox water with lemon
Now, let’s get to the juicy part: making your detox water with lemon. The better the fruit, veggies and herbs, the better the detox water, so it really is worth spending money on the highest quality ingredients you can find.
Try to use only organic produce and unwaxed lemons. Waxed fruit will leave nasty scum on the surface and pesticides or fungicides will dissolve into your drink. Unwaxed lemons make the ideal choice if you want to use the lemon zest or add lemon slices to water. If only waxed lemons are available, gently scrub the peel before use.
Using filtered water will also make your detox drink the healthiest it can be. All the nasties in tap water that can put pressure on your body’s system in the long term will be eradicated, leaving you with pure, fresh H2O. We love the Brio Moderna Ice Dispenser & Bottom Load Water Cooler. This is the ice and water dispenser of your dreams, providing ice, piping-hot water, and refreshing cold water – all from one advanced unit.
Ingredients
- Filtered water
- Cucumbers
- Mint
- Lemon
Steps
- Rinse your lemons, cucumbers, and mint in filtered water.
- Fill a third to a half of a pitcher with filtered water.
- Cut the lemons, cucumbers, and mint into thin slices. You can add other ingredients and flavors if desired.
- Place in your refrigerator and let it sit for at least four hours. For maximum infusion, let it rest overnight. You could add a few slices of ginger or a sprinkle of turmeric and a pinch of pepper to enhance the detox process.
- Enjoy!
More hydration, more flavors: infused water recipes
Refreshing your hydration routine is as simple as adding a splash of natural goodness to your water. Here are some more delightful infused water recipes to keep you sipping happily:
- Berry Bliss: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and basil leaves.
- Watermelon Wonder: watermelon cubes and basil or mint leaves.
- Apple-Cinnamon Spice: apple slices and cinnamon sticks.
- Pineapple-Mint Delight: pineapple slices and fresh mint leaves.
- Herbal Infusion: chamomile flowers and lavender buds.
- Elegant Elixir: pomegranate seeds and edible rose petals.
There you have it – the lowdown on why detox water deserves a front-row seat in your daily wellness routine. It’s not just a drink; it’s your tasty ticket to a healthier, happier you. So, experiment with ingredients, add a twist to your water, and let your wellness journey begin. Need more inspiration? Read How To Make Your Water Taste Better: Our Top 10 Water Infusion Recipes.
