Making Water Tastier

Some people just don’t like the taste of plain water; however, in order to keep the body properly hydrated, drinking water is essential. Several tips that can make water more appealing for those who do not like the taste of plain water include the following:

Infuser water bottles

Infuser water bottles are an affordable option to enhance the flavor of water. Fruit, or a combination of fruits and cucumbers, can be added to the infuser section of the bottle and adjusted to suit personal taste. If an infuser water bottle is not readily available, fruits, vegetables or herbs can be added to water in a large pitcher and kept in the refrigerator for a day or two, depending on the choice of ingredient (some stay fresh longer than others). Examples of fruits, herbs and vegetables to add to water include limes, lemons, oranges, strawberry slices, crushed raspberries, fresh ginger, cucumbers and fresh mint.

Fruit juice

Fruit juices can enhance the flavor of water, and they also contain the extra benefit of antioxidants and vitamins. Fruit juices contain natural sugar, so adding just enough juice to give the water some flavor is recommended. Fruit juices with added sugar should be avoided.

Flavored ice cubes

Flavored ice cubes not only make water cold, but they can also make drinking water more enjoyable. Chopped fresh fruits, cucumbers or mint can be added to ice cube trays prior to freezing. Juice, tea or coffee can also be frozen in ice cube trays and used to enhance the taste of water.

Sparkling water

Sparkling water may be preferred over still water. Naturally effervescent mineral water and carbonated water are good choices. Fresh fruit or natural juice flavors can be added to a bubbly seltzer.

Water enhancers

Water enhancers are available in powder or liquid form. The powdered form typically has to be mixed with a set amount of water. The liquid form can be used according to taste. It’s important to be aware of sugar content, artificial sweeteners and other additives in water enhancers. Sugar-free flavor cartridges to use with a faucet filter system are also available for purchase.

Caffeine-free and savory options

Decaffeinated teas, such as fruit, green, white, red or herbal, are a great way to add more water into the diet. If savory hot liquids are preferred, low-sodium broths and consommés are water-based and count toward daily water intake.