Did you know that water makes up 95 percent of the human brain and 60 to 70 percent of the entire body? Hydration is essential for both mental acuity and physical performance. Sometimes, it can be difficult to get your eight glasses of water per day. Perhaps your lifestyle/diet has included increased levels of alcohol and caffeine? The detrimental effects of these toxins can be reversed with increased hydration.
Detox waters are great ways to make water more enjoyable. And, they have extra health benefits as well. It’s really simple – just fill up a container or glass with water and add nutritious ingredients. Leave overnight to distill. You’ll find that a lot of everyday fruits and veggies, and also kitchen cupboard staples, can easily transform humble H2O into your personalized detox solution. Here are the top picks:
Lemon – Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin c and enzymes. Nothing really tops the natural cleansing properties of citric acid. Lemon has been associated with boosting the liver’s function and tissue regeneration. This means great things for your metabolism and you’ll be radiating with healthy skin.
Cucumbers – The humble cucumber is one of the most hydrating of all vegetables – it’s mostly made up of water. It’s great for your physical health as it contains the minerals magnesium, potassium, silicon, and sulfur (those last two are particularly great for stimulating hair growth). Also, it’s very high in vitamins C and B, working synonymously to promote good general health and energy levels.
Strawberries – We all know strawberries are a luscious, tasty fruit. They provide a great flavour while also packing a punch of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Actually, it’s the phytonutrients in strawberries (that gives them their distinctive flavour and smell) that provide protective, disease-preventing compounds. Strawberries also have been proven to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Cranberries/cranberry juice – Cranberry is perhaps best known for its ability to fight and preventing urinary tract infections. This berry can also improve immune function and lower cholesterol. Cranberry juice is a lot more convenient and easy to acquire in a supermarket than the berries in the whole form. The berries themselves are often referred to as a “superfood” for their extremely high nutrient and antioxidant density.
Apple cider vinegar – Apple cider vinegar is a pantry staple but it’s also a very powerful detox supplement. It contains pectin, which is great for intestinal health. Just one or two tablespoons mixed in water can work well to reduce bloating and water retention. It’s also brilliant in combating indigestion. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar can also work to suppress appetite and increase metabolism.
Cayenne pepper – Cayenne pepper has long been used therapeutically by many societies throughout the world. It stimulates circulation and helps to neutralize acidity. It works hard to get the digestive tract moving. This means increased metabolism and weight loss through the assimilation and elimination of toxins. Helping the body to sweat and to increase lymphatic and digestive rhythms, cayenne pepper in your morning beverage provides a great total body detox.
