By Emma Line
Drink more water. A popular new year’s resolution – one which around a third of people make, according to a survey by Aquasana – but one which so many of us struggle to keep, especially during lockdown. In 2021, whilst dealing with upheaval in all areas of our lives, hydration may be far from the top of our priority list. But it’s so essential.
We’re all aware of how important hydration is for overall health. And, just like every other organ in our bodies, our skin craves it. Dehydration can wreak havoc with our skin, causing all sorts of problems, from break outs to uneven skin tone, and even wrinkles. Staying hydrated is just as important as a daily cleanse or applying that layer of SPF in the morning.
According to the Eatwell Guide, we should be aiming to drink between 6-8 glasses of fluid a day. Whilst this doesn’t have to be water, many drinks – including soft drinks and fruit juices – contain high levels of sugar, making them less healthy and causing problems for our blood sugar levels and teeth. So, for most of our daily intake, water is the go-to.
For many of us though, reaching that coveted 8 glasses a day is a struggle. Water doesn’t exactly win any prizes for excitement when it comes to flavour. But, fear not. Fruit infusion may just be the super simple answer to making hydration fun – and even healthier!
Firstly, fruit-infused water adds flavour without increasing the sugar content to an unhealthy level. And, if we’re enjoying the flavour of our water, we’re naturally more likely to keep drinking it and reach our hydration goals for the day. Fruit-infused water can also actually increase how hydrated our water makes us. Electrolytes which pass into the water from the fruit help to maintain fluid balance in cells. Results from a 2018 study suggest that those drinking fruit-infused water during exercise, compared to those just drinking water, remained more hydrated overall.
Aside from increased hydration, ‘water soluble nutrients’ in the fruit we add to our water boost its health benefits. Vitamin C is just one example. A powerful antioxidant, it helps defend skin against aggravation from external sources, improving overall skin texture and quality. Citrus fruits are an especially good source of Vitamin C and a tasty addition to any fruit infusion.
So, fruit-infused water gives us better flavour, better hydration and higher nutrients – what’s not to love? If you fancy upping your water game and staying hydrated in style, here are some things to consider:
- You can add ingredients directly to your water, or invest in a fruit infuser water bottle if you prefer keeping the fruit separate.
- The longer you leave to infuse, the stronger the flavour, so infusion time will depend on personal taste.
- Get creative and add whatever fruit combinations you fancy to your water. But if you’re looking for some inspiration to get started, here are a few of our personal favourites:
