While water is the best choice for staying hydrated, adding a variety of delicious and nutritious beverages to your routine can make staying hydrated more enjoyable.
Here are some healthy and refreshing summer drink recipes to help you stay cool and hydrated during the hottest months.
Refreshing Summer Drink Recipes
1. Watermelon Mint Cooler
Watermelon is a hydrating fruit with a high water content, making it perfect for summer drinks. This Watermelon Mint Cooler is not only refreshing but also packed with vitamins A and C.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of watermelon, cubed and seeds removed
- 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
- Juice of 1 lime
- 3 cups cold water
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
In a blender, combine the watermelon cubes, mint leaves, lime juice and cold water. Blend until smooth. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve to remove pulp, if desired. Serve over ice and garnish with extra mint leaves and a lime wedge.
2. Cucumber Lemon Infused Water
Infused water is a simple way to make your hydration routine more exciting without adding extra calories or sugar. Cucumber and lemon provide a refreshing twist, along with added vitamins and antioxidants.
Ingredients:
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 8 cups of water
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
Add the cucumber and lemon slices to a large pitcher. Fill the pitcher with water. Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for at least two hours to allow the flavors to infuse. Serve over ice and enjoy throughout the day.
3. Tropical Coconut Water Smoothie
Coconut water is naturally hydrating and rich in electrolytes, making it an excellent choice for a post-workout drink. This Tropical Coconut Water Smoothie combines the benefits of coconut water with the delicious flavors of tropical fruits.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coconut water
- 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or frozen)
- 1/2 banana
- 1/4 cup mango chunks (fresh or frozen)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
In a blender, combine the coconut water, pineapple chunks, banana, mango chunks and ice cubes. Blend until smooth and creamy. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
4. Citrus Aloe Vera Drink
Aloe vera is known for its hydrating and soothing properties. Combined with citrus fruits, it makes for a revitalizing summer drink.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup aloe vera juice
- 1 orange, juiced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
- 2 cups cold water
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
In a large glass or pitcher, combine the aloe vera juice, orange juice, lemon juice, honey and color water. Stir well to mix all the ingredients. Serve over ice and garnish with orange and lemon slices for extra flavor.
5. Herbal Hibiscus Iced Tea
Hibiscus tea is a vibrant, tart and refreshing drink that is also rich in antioxidants. It’s perfect for a hot summer day.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups of water
- 4 hibiscus tea bags or 1/4 cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 1-2 tablespoons honey or agave syrup
- Juice of 1 lime
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
Boil the water and steep the hibiscus tea bags or dried hibiscus flowers for 5-10 minutes. Remove the tea bags or strain out the dried flowers. Stir in the honey or agave syrup and lime juice. Let the tea cool to room temperature, then refrigerate until cold. Serve over ice and garnish with lime wedges.
Tips for Staying Hydrated
While these drinks are delicious and nutritious, here are a few additional tips to help you stay hydrated during the summer:
- Carry a Water Bottle: Keep a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day to encourage regular sipping.
- Set Reminders: Use your phone or a hydration app to remind you to drink water regularly.
- Eat Hydrating Foods: Incorporate water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, melons and leafy greens into your diet.
By incorporating these tasty beverages and hydration tips into your daily routine, you can stay refreshed and healthy all summer long. Cheers to a hydrated and happy summer!
