Liz Thompson
If there is one thing everyone can agree on it is that water is all important to our health and good looks. Sure, sometimes you feel like something a little more exciting than a glass of straight up h20. But it can be difficult to avoid sugar and sugar-substitutes in flavored waters, ingredients you definitely do not need to add to your health plan. Fortunately, there are two great (and healthy) alternatives for flavored water lovers. First, let’s take a look at Herbal Water. These refreshing beverages are made by infusing organic herbs in pure water. They use absolutely no artificial sweeteners, preservatives, additives of any kind or calories. Herbal Waters were created by Dr. Ayala, a trained pediatrician with a love of gardening and healthy living, as an alternative to sugar-laden and artificially flavored beverages. Hopefully, tempting finicky children (and some adults) into drinking more water.
We personally tested the full range of Herbal Waters at our house, including; Lemongrass Mint Vanilla, Lavender Mint, Ginger Lemon Peel, Cinnamon Orange Peel, Cloves Cardamom Cinnamon and Lemon Verbena Geranium. The label states that the waters are best served cold and I would definitely agree. My kids were especially fond of “the ones that taste like candy” (not sure if that is a good thing, but they were drinking water) which were the Cinnamon Orange Peel and the Cloves Cardamom Cinnamon. My top choice would have to be Ginger Lemon Peel for its fresh, crispness. But I must admit, the more flowery types I could not do. This is probably due to the fact that I test (and smell) lots and lots of beauty products made with lavender and geranium and, though I love them on my skin, can not drink them. My sister, on the other hand, loved those two in particular and wants them to “be a part of her daily life”. The bottom line: Herbal Waters are pure, fresh – and very herbal. A case of 12 is $24.
Next up – Twist juice flavored water beverages. These drinks are also free from preservatives and artificial sweeteners, but do have calories – a whole 9 per serving. Twist organic flavored waters come in six flavors; Mandarin White Tea, Pomegranate Blueberry, West Indies Lime, Lemon, Wild Strawberry and Mango Acai. We truly loved them all, but if pressed to choose a favorite would probably pick Mango Acai to pal around with (I’m a tropical kinda gal) but the Wild Strawberry is mouth-watering too. The bottom line: a healthy beverage that is still basic enough to please the whole family. Available at stores nationwide for $1.29-$1.49 (19 oz).
It is refreshing to have a healthy drink choice on hand that isn’t plain water and the kids jumped at the chance to try out each one. And I found that a flavored water that isn’t carbonated is also a pleasant switch.
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