Throughout your day of sweating in the sun (or playing in the shade), it’s important to remember, whether you feel thirsty or not, to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to a number of serious health problems, which can easily be avoided by carrying your reusable bottle with you and continuing to sip and refill all day long. We all know water is a great hydrator, and we should drink plenty of it, but there are some other deliciously refreshing beverages that we also love to enjoy all summer long!
Fresh Juice. The water from fruits and veggies is one of the most nutrient dense liquids nature has provided us. This does not include “supermarket juice” filled with added sugars and preservatives, or stuff in cartons, boxes or plastic. You can make your own (with organic produce, of course) so you know exactly what’s in it, or pick up a bottle of fresh, cold-pressed, raw, organic juice from a juice shop in your neighbourhood. There are great spots here in Toronto, just make sure they have a commitment to 100% organic (or wildcrafted) and bottle in glass, otherwise take a pass, it’s VERY important to trust a juice supply. Green House Juice and The Good Press are ones we enjoy and trust. Exceptions to the rule include those who juice to order with fresh, organic produce such as Earth + City, Sunshine Market and the Big Carrot in Toronto.
Power Smoothie. There’s just something about smoothies…they can be sipped up as a healthy start to the day, a pre- or post-workout drink, a meal replacement, an easy way to help detox, a sweet treat, healthy fast food for on the go, a thirst quencher and hydrator, and can be made to please any age, any taste or any lifestyle! Be creative and try new recipes. This guide is a great resource to help inspire you to try as many SUPER foods as possible in liquid form.
Coconut water. Coconut water is one of nature’s best electrolytes, and has more potassium than a banana. It’s also low acidity, no fat, no cholesterol, and be sure to check for no sugar added. And a big bonus- it’s not an electric colour like those sport drinks, hurray!
Maple Water. Canada’s answer to coconut water. Low calorie, great tasting, and loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Just make sure there’s nothing else added to it.
Kombucha. If you aren’t already sipping this brew on the regular, there are many reasons to start today. This ancient fermented tea enhances vital energy, balances digestion and detoxifies. You’re likely to find us enjoying a bottle of RISE, Pyramid Ferments, or Kind Organics, or a house made micro-brew from Feel Good Guru.
To keep your drink nice and cool (even in the hot sun) take them with you on the go in an insulated Klean Kanteen. Seriously, you can bring it on a hike, leave it in the car for hours, or have it with you in a hot yoga class and your drink will stay ice cold. For ultimate enjoyment, pop in a reusable, functional, and beautiful glass straw, or even freeze into popcicles!
Cheers to celebrating summer in good health!
