Healthy Trends: Infused Water

by Lauren Dearing, Hilton Head Health Food and Beverage Manager

Infused water is a delicious way to stay hydrated and a great alternative to sugary sodas and other unhealthy beverages. Here at Hilton Head Health, we've actually switched out our H3 Lemonade for infused water to help promote infused water as a healthier option for our Guests;  and to encourage them to make this refreshing drink at home. We're even sharing a few, simple tips to give our subscribers and our Guests ideas to help make their own infused water creations!

Prepare It In Advance

The longer the infused water sits the more the flavor develops and depending on your fruit it can last in your refrigerator for a couple of days.

Fruit Preparations  

Cut your fruit into smaller pieces for a stronger flavor, whole strawberries have a milder flavor compared to strawberries that have been quartered.  Fruits with a skin, such as grapes or cranberries, should be cut in half so the water can infuse with the juices.

*If your water tastes a little too bitter try cutting off the rinds of your fruit.

Get Creative

You can start with 2 parts water and 1 part fruit if you'd like a more specific plan of attack but I've found that infused water is basically like soup; you just keep adding ingredients until it taste just right for you.

You don’t have to just stick with fruit for wonderful infused water, get creative.  Try adding herbs with your fruit such as mint, basil, cinnamon sticks, rosemary or if you feel you need some extra pizzazz add some sparkling water.  But most importantly HAVE FUN; there are no wrong answers when it comes to making infused water!

Here are a few of my favorite combinations:

• Strawberries and pineapple


• Oranges, cranberries, and rosemary


• Lemons, limes, and mint


• Strawberries and jalapenos


• Apples and cinnamon sticks

What's your go-to combination for infused water?