While most dermatologists and doctors preach the benefits of
drinking more water, water gets boring. Perhaps you’ve done just about
everything to make your plain glass of water more enjoyable.
If you’re running
out of ideas and are tempted to reach for a caffeinated beverage you’re not
alone.
We talked to the experts who gave us six fresh infused water recipes
that’ll pack a punch of flavor and add health and beauty
benefits to your H2O! If you’re new to infused water it’s easy.
Chop up the
ingredients, let them sit overnight in your water pitcher and sip your way to
healthy hydration inside and out.
1. Mango Ginger
This combo might seem weird, but adding the health benefits
of ginger and the antioxidant power of mangoes is a surprisingly tasty mix!
“Mangoes contain so many vitamins that help boost your immune system. It has
antioxidants that maintain youthful glowing skin and aid in the production of
blood cells,” says Dr. Christopher Calapai D.O. an anti-aging expert and
long-time health advisor to the New York Rangers hockey team.
“Ginger is
also helpful in fighting infection, has been linked to lower cholesterol
levels, may reduce muscle aches, and helps digestion,” adds Dr. Calapai.
2. Grapefruit Rosemary
Recently rosemary was found to be the main ingredient eaten
by residents of an Italian village with one of the highest populations of
people who live past 100!
“Rosemary improves circulation and sends more blood
to the brain which is linked to greater concentration and potentially reduces
risk of Alzheimer’s,” says Dr. Calapai.
Grapefruit is not only delicious but
it’s a natural fat burner, boosts metabolism and cleanses your liver.
3. Melon Mix
Cut up watermelon, honeydew and cantaloupe chunks and throw
into your water over night.
“This melon variety tastes great and is amazing for
your skin,” says Dr. Kally Papantoniou board certified dermatologist and
clinical instructor at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York.
“Melons are immensely
hydrating, meaning more hydration per cup of water.
They are also chock-full of
antioxidants that keep skin clear plus they contain vitamins that promote
collagen production which helps skin cell turnover.”
4. Citrus Mint
Pick your favorite citrus fruits, cut up into slices and add
some crushed mint.
“Adding mint to your water is not only extra
refreshing but also improves digestive health and can speed up your
metabolism,” says Dr. Calapai.
“Mint actually contains salicylic acid, a potent
acne fighter,” says Dr. Papantoniou.
“It’s also well known for it’s
anti-inflammatory properties which work to calm irritation both on your skin or
internally,” she adds.
5. Cucumber Lavender
“The reason so many spas use cucumber based treatments is
because it contains many skin friendly minerals like magnesium, potassium and
silicon,” says Dr. Papantoniou.
“This mix is especially healthy,” says Dr.
Calapai “Cucumbers are powerful detoxifiers, flushing out any waste in your
system.
Adding crushed lavender to the mix not only adds a beautiful aroma but
can also help digestion as lavender contains polyphenols that reduce bad
bacteria in your gut, making your system run smoother,” he explains.
6. Pineapple Coconut Water
This one is almost cheating… almost.
Get your favorite store
bought raw coconut water and refrigerate overnight with large chunks of
pineapple. The coconut-pineapple flavor combo is delicious and reminiscent of a
piña colada without all the sugar and calories.
Although this is not pure H2O, coconut
water contains electrolytes which plain water does not, which rehydrate you in
record time.
“Pineapple is yet another fruit that aids in collagen production,”
says Papantoniou
“This is not just great for beautiful skin, and collagen also
has a major role in bone health and tissue repair.”
There are great benefits to keeping hydrated. Water does not
have to be boring, it can be delicious. Drink up!
Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is a board certified Osteopathic Physician in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed as the "The Stem Cell Guru" by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S.
Dr. Calapai started his practice in New York City in 1986 and for over 25 years he has hosted nationally syndicated radio shows, including his two weekly call-in shows on WABC 770-AM, where he offers health and medical advice.
His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer's, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson's.
~Jennifer
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