The act of drinking water is essential to good health as it flushes toxins from organs, carries nutrients to cells, helps joints, aids in digestion, and more. One might be surprised to learn that about 60% of the human body weight is made of water, and adequate intake keeps our bodies functioning well. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) offers basic guidelines for daily liquid intake: For men, about 13 cups of fluid is recommended. IOM suggests about 9 cups of fluid for women, and amounts may increase for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Failing to intake enough liquid regularly may lead to various medical conditions, from dry eyes and skin to dehydration, dizziness, confusion, or seizures, and more. Additionally, symptoms can be exacerbated in heat. To avoid medical problems, it is necessary to stay properly hydrated throughout the day. However, some people find drinking water to be a mundane and unpleasant task. For this reason, they may consume less than the recommended amounts or substitute water with other flavorful beverages like juice or soda. However, sweet beverages may contain large amounts of sugar that can contribute to progressive conditions such as type 2 diabetes, where the body cannot use blood sugar (glucose) properly.
For those seeking to get adequate amounts of liquid into the body, consider drinking cucumber mint water. Not only is the beverage tasty and refreshing, but it offers multitudes of health benefits. Cucumbers are 95 percent water and promote hydration. But there’s more. Per Healthline, they are rich in vitamin C, vitamin B-5, beta carotene, manganese, molybdenum and contain some flavonoid antioxidants. Mint is a good source of vitamin A, critical for night vision, and is a potent antioxidant source. Most people can safely incorporate cucumber mint water into their hydration plan. However, people with GERD or other medical conditions should discuss nutrition sources with their trusted medical professional to make sure changes to the diet can be safely tolerated.
NO-FUSS CUCUMBER MINT WATER
- 1 large organic cucumber, washed & skin on, sliced thinly
- 1 bunch of organic mint leaves, washed & tightly packed
- Cold water to fill the pitcher
Directions: Add the cucumber and mint to the pitcher. Next, add cold water to fill pitcher. Cover pitcher with lid or saran wrap. Best if refrigerated for at least three hours for best flavor infusion. Keep cold & serve.
Variation: add one thinly sliced lemon or lime to the water, with the peel still on.
Best served in a tall, chilled glass. May be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Makes one 8-to-10 cup pitcher.
