DIY Vitamin Water

Strawberry and Spearmint

I have been making a conscious effort lately to drink more water.  Because I have never been much of a water drinker I must doctor it up a bit.  I need a little "oumf" to my water.  And adding fruits, herbs and maybe one vegetable is the perfect way.

A few weeks ago I was at the store checking out all the bottled waters and teas.  We drink filtered water because our city water is just gross.  And I do buy bottled water to have on hand for our evening walks.  I came across the Vitamin Water as I was getting our bottled water.  I thought maybe that would be good.  WRONG!  I am sure you have heard of Vitamin Water.  You know those colorful bottles with the catchy names?

 

Vitamin Water gives the illusion of a healthy, hydrating, and rejuvenating miracle elixir.  The names make people feel good when they are drinking the sugary concoction....... like "endurance," "energy," "essential," and "focus."   Someone did a fine job in the marketing department for this "water".

 

As people chug a bottle of "charge" or "balance" they actually think they are truly replenishing their body. The truth is... Vitamin Water is fortified sugar water. Next time you are at the grocery store check the label yourself.

 

After this I did a little research and decided I could make my own vitamin water!!!  Here are a few favorites and the very simple way to make them.

 

 

From left to right-limes and spearmint, strawberries and spearmint and blueberries and strawberries.

The lime and spearmint is my favorite by far!!! 

 

SO EASY! 

 

Slice fruit and add to a jar or container.  You could also make a big picture of this as well.

 

Lightly smash fruit and herbs with a wooden spoon to help release their juices.  

 

 

Add ice, then fill with water.  Allow to infuse for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight.

Water will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.  As soon as I finish a jar I go ahead and make another. 

 

 

A few others I will be trying:

-watermelon and rosemary

-pineapple and mint

-all citrus

-cucumber and lime

-raspberry and lime

 

Now before you think I go out and buy all this fruit just to make the water let me clarify....and tell you the beauty in it.  I do buy a ton of fruits and veggies.  Mostly in hopes everyone will eat their fair share.  We all do a pretty good job of it, but there is always a little extra that is getting way too ripe.  Those fruits my dear friends are perfect for your vitamin water. DO NOT throw them out!  Toss in a jar follow recipe above. 

 

NOTE: Most vitamins are water-soluble, but to get the fiber you have to actually eat the fruits.

 

Happy drinking and stay hydrated this weekend!!!  And have some FUN too! 

 

Right now I am off to check on the Egret that decided yesterday evening to grace us with it's presences.  It walked along our street through yards finally making it's way to our front yard. 

 

 

The boys were excited to find it outside their bedroom window.  Where it then squeezed it's way through the neighbor's fence and made for quite a show last night for children and adults alike :)  It finally managed to get on the fence where it slept all night and is still there this morning.  I love nature!!!