I've always loved water.
Fancy, colourful, milky and even carbonated drink varieties could never sway me away from my first true love and yes I do realise this makes me rather odd.
Or does it?
The human body is made up of between 50% to 75% water.
Can you even comprehend how much water that is? Water forms the basis of our blood, digestive juices, urine, perspiration (I hear that summer!) and is contained in lean muscle, fat and bones.
As much as we rely on water and as clever as our bodies are, they're unable to store it and we require a fresh supply daily, to make up for losses from the lungs, skin, urine and faeces (poo). The quantity that we need is dependant on our body size, metabolism, weather, the food we eat and our individual activity levels.
So really it makes complete sense why I love water.
My body needs and thrives on it and I'm in tune with that body. I'll often receive compliments on my skin and as well as quality sleep, food and exercise; the magical potion is.... water. Instead of blotchy skin, bleary eyes, lethargy, an unfocused mind and pounding head; I want you to feel and look incredible so let's get that happening!
Non-retouched photos of me (water-thriving and all).....
Still not convinced? Why do we need this clear liquid you say?
Water is required for most body functions including the below among others:
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maintain the health and integrity of every cell in the body
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keep the bloodstream liquid enough to flow through blood vessels
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help eliminate the byproducts of the body’s metabolism, excess electrolytes (for example, sodium and potassium), and urea, which is a waste product formed through the processing of dietary protein
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regulate body temperature through sweating
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lubricate and cushion joints
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aid digestion and prevent constipation
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moisturise the skin to maintain its texture and appearance
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carry nutrients and oxygen to cells
Most foods contain water and the body is smart enough to get approximately 20 per cent of its total water requirements from solid foods alone; amazing right?! The digestion process also produces water as a by-product and can provide around 10 per cent of the body’s water requirements. As incredible as the body is, we're not off the hook and that remaining 70% must come from water that we consume.
Our Australian standard daily recommendation is 8 cups for women and 10 for men. There are variables for who needs what and how much as I mentioned above, though a little common sense goes a long way to becoming more intuitive with your body and it's needs.
So let's get to drinking the elixir of life, the one answer that every glowing person gives when you ask them what their secret is and let's make it both interesting and delicious too!
How do we do that?
This is how.
My favourite combinations include delicious and easy-to-locate ingredients so try these out for some inspiration and then get creative as well!
Always start with ice and the flavouring before adding the water; of which could be still or sparkling for a different taste. That way you're not sticking your fingers in the water, adding the fruit and herbs.
Serve these drinks when people come over in place of expensive and chemical-laden selections. Use the nice jugs and glasses, even buy biodegradable and chic straws, you may find the drinkers among your guests will be jealous and you may find them swapping over! They look fabulous, taste fantastic and can be tailored for any occasion!
RECYCLE!
The glass jug that you see is one that stays full like this in our fridge at home for 4 days at a time so please don't just throw away all of that delicious flavoured water after one use - keep refilling! NOTE - berries will last 2 days max.
Combination Ideas - all served with still or sparkling water + ice
Mint / Lemon
Mint / Orange
Blueberries / Strawberries / Mint
Cucumber / Lime / Kiwi / Mint
Orange / Rosemary
Lemon / Lime / Mint / Cucumber
Enjoy the delicious taste and refreshing vitality of adding more water into your life; in style of course and be sure to share this idea with a friend.
