“Water is the soul of the earth.”
– W.H. Auden
How can you get your children or loved ones to drink enough fluids? Make some ‘Wicked Good Water’ that can also be used to make beautiful ice cubes your children will love to eat, and your party guests will want to imitate.
Proper hydration is not a problem that only surfaces in the heat of summer. Winter hydration has its own set of problems that stem from over-heated dwellings, schools, cars, and dry cold weather.
Hot and humid summer weather can cause increased perspiration which requires additional intake of fluid. Heated indoor air, winter sports, and even cold fresh air can cause your skin and that of your children to lose moisture.
High altitudes have their own set of fluid challenges. Winter skiing and summer hiking with the family in areas with an altitude greater than 8,200 feet (2,500 meters) may trigger physical responses such as increased urination and more rapid breathing, which can use up more fluid reserves.
“But my children will only drink sodas,” is a statement I often hear from exasperated parents. Getting your children to trade sugary carbonated drinks for healthy water is often the biggest problem of any season or situation. So, what is a mother to do?
Infused water filled with the flavors of fresh seasonal fruits, herbs, and spices may be the easiest path to healthy hydration during any season. Use the water and left over fruit to make infused ice-cubes that taste as good as ice-cream and can match the setting for your next dinner party.
The video below shows you how to make infused water the whole family will enjoy. Keep it in the refrigerator for easy access.
Infused Water
Ingredients (organic when possible)
1 large handful of blueberries
½ orange peeled and sliced
7 basil leaves
24 oz purified water
Directions
Muddle (smash) fruit
Place in container
Add water
Place in refrigerator for 2 hours
According to the first national study of its kind from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, there is inadequate hydration among the children in the United States which could have severe negative implications for their health and well-being. The study also found both racial/ethnic and gender gaps concerning hydration with black children and adolescents at a higher risk than whites.
