07/02/2008 (By Larissa Walkiw)

Save money by learning to love your water

Everybody knows it – there are numerous benefits to drinking water. It increases energy, regulates body temperature, flushes out toxins, and is an important part of maintaining overall health. Oh yeah, did I mention it's free?

Despite this, a good chunk (almost one third) of Canadians are mildly dehydrated. It's not that everyone's forgetting to drink – it's what they're choosing to drink that's causing the problem.

Coffees, teas, pop, and alcoholic beverages are made up of mostly water, but they also contain ingredients or chemicals that can dehydrate you (and are bad for your health, too!). They may taste better, but they have nothing on water when it comes to caring for your body.

A popular excuse for not drinking more water (and I tend to use it a lot, unfortunately!) is that is tasteless and boring to drink. Although there are options out there like bottled water and flavored water, these can be very pricey and can contain the coloring and chemicals that you're trying to avoid by drinking water in the first place!

The solution? Go natural!

There are ingredients in your kitchen that you can use to give your water a little kick. This summer, try out a couple different "water recipes". Not only will you save money on bottled drinks, but you'll be doing your body good, as well!

Cucumber For a refreshing twist, chill cucumber slices in with your pitcher of water. You can also add in cubed honeydew melon for a hint of sweetness.

Citrus Lemons, limes, and orange slices can do wonders to liven up a pitcher of water. Lemon and lime juice can also be used.

Vinegar "Ew! Larissa, are you kidding me??" Nope. Vinegar is a healthy way to flavor water. Just a splash of apple cider vinegar into a pitcher or water will turn it into a crisp, refreshing beverage (note: I would not recommend white vinegar or balsamic vinegar... now that would truly be "Ew!")

Hint of Green Mint and lemongrass are great for fresh-tasting water.

Berries Cut or crush a few berries into your water (blueberries and strawberries are both great choices) and let it absorb all the lovely flavors.

Ginger If you're a little more adventurous, sliced ginger adds a spicy kick to your H2O. Though calming when served hot, it is also tasty served cold.

If you keep your water at room temperature, these water recipes should be switched out daily. If you keep your water chilled in the fridge, you can hang on to them for a couple days. But really... it shouldn't be an issue because you'll finally be drinking more water!

Cheers!

Larissa