Need some new infused water recipes? Look no further. By adding fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices to your water, you can improve the taste and make water drinking a little more exciting. This is also a great way to amp up the flavor without adding lots of calories or non-caloric sweeteners.
First…Why is water important?
Water makes up roughly 60% of your weight, and every system in your body relies on it. When your body does not have enough fluids, it struggles to carry out its normal functions. That’s why it’s so important to drink water year-round, not just during the hot days of summer.
Basically by drinking water, we ensure that our cells, brain, muscles, bones and blood can get all the nutrients they need. Water is essential, which is why we are such fans of infused water. Meanwhile our clients who have tried it report that they have increased their water intake, and enjoy drinking water more.
Next…How much water do I need?
Is it still true that you need 8 cups of water per day? For most adolescents and adults, you likely need more! Learn more about how much you need based on age and gender.
But remember, these are only general guidelines, and your recommendations may vary based on your specific needs. Keep in mind that water intake should be individualized and should take into account things like exercise intensity, illness, current weather conditions, and pregnancy/breastfeeding.
A quick way to gauge if you need to increase your water intake is to use your urine as a guide. Keep it clear! But try not to feel overwhelmed. Start by adding one more 8-ounce cup per week, and work your way up to meeting the recommendations.
Infused Water Basics
To get started, simply gather your ingredients. We like to start with whole, fresh foods first. Making infused water is a great way to use up ripe produce in your fridge before it goes to waste! It’s also a great way to enjoy a seasonal beverage. For example, we like drinking watermelon-infused water in the summer, and cranberry/orange infused water in cooler months.
Food safety
You can make your infused water up to 24 hours in advance, and always store it in the refrigerator. Be sure to you wash your produce thoroughly. Once your water is infused, you can use a strainer to remove the pulp, or drink it as is. It’s up to you!
Equipment
You can store your infused water in the fridge in a traditional pitcher or in any water bottle. But there are containers designed just for infused water that are a bit more fun. Below are two of our favorites.
This pitcher holds two quarts of infused water. Make it the night before and store it in the refrigerator overnight. Then you can pour it into a glass or water bottle.
This bottle has a chamber to load up your ingredients. You then add them to the metal water bottle, which keeps your infused water cold for up to 24 hours.
Infused Water Recipes
Fruits + Vegetable Infused Water Recipes
There really is no fruit or vegetable that is off-limits! You can always experiment by trying new fruit and even a combination of fruits together.
| Sliced Cucumbers | About 1/4 of sliced cucumber (ok to leave on the skin) |
| Strawberries + Kiwi | About 1-2 berries and 1/2 kiwi per 8 fluid ounces |
| Lemons | 1/2 lemon |
| Watermelon | 3-4 cubes |
| Orange, Lime, and Lemon | 2 orange wedges, 1/4 lime, 1/4 lemon |
Add in Herbs
Try to spice up your infused water with these herbs and spices. You can get most herbs at your local grocery store. Better yet, grow them yourself, which is more economical (and fun!) Check out our favorite indoor herb garden below to grow your own.
This deluxe herb garden kit comes with everything you need to grow your own herbs, indoors.
The amount of herbs to use for each combination below will depend on your personal taste buds and preferences. Also the strength of your spices and herbs may depend on where they are grown. Remember, you can always add more, so best to start with just a pinch and gradually add more if you don’t think the flavor comes through enough.
| Raspberry & Basil | Blueberry & Lemon |
| Watermelon & Mint | Cherry & Lime |
| Lemon & Ginger | Blackberry & Sage |
| Blueberry & Basil | Cucumber & Mint |
| Cranberry & Orange | Strawberry & Lemon |
Add in bubbles
Missing the carbonation? You can always add seltzer water to any infused water recipe. You can even use carbonated water versus still water in your infused water recipes. However, it is important to note that too much carbonation can be hard on the stomach and can interfere with some vitamin and mineral absorption.
Try these infused water recipes & learn to love water!
Increasing your water intake may seem difficult, but adding infused water to your daily routine can make hitting your water goals more attainable (and more enjoyable). Don’t know where to start, or which infused water recipe to try? Start by thinking about some of your favorite fresh fruits and veggies. Be sure to add these to your grocery list if you don’t regularly buy them. Or simply open your fridge, and see what you already have on hand. Happy drinking!
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