My Guilt-Free Beverage

Infused Waters are a great way to mix your beverage up without drinking something loaded with sugar. As little as 2-3 teaspoons of sugar impacts the blood sugar level and elevates triglycerides. There are 4 grams = 1 teaspoon. Most teas and even all natural sodas have 22-44 grams of sugar per serving. That's the equivalent of 5.5-11 teaspoons of sugar per serving. Diets excessive in sugar and carbohydrate can affect the biochemistry of the brain. They impact the hormone levels and are linked with weight gain, depression and increased fatigue. There are healthier options out there like creating an infused water, teas, flavored soda waters (fizzy!), vegetable and fruit smoothies/juices.

Add a little bit of sea salt if you are overly hydrated and need electrolytes. If you're feeling saucy you can add a dash of cayenne for extra nutritional benefits. The fruits used in this infusion are sources of Vitamin C which can help ward off colds and sickness. Aloe juice is good for the digestive system and anti-inflammatory. I use George's brand aloe vera juice as part of a candida elimination diet - it has no preservatives and tastes like water. Some brands of aloe juice are not filtered or juiced properly and can be harsh on the body and bitter. 

Cucumber, Green Apple, Lemon and Aloe Infused Water

Ingredients:
1/4 of a medium cucumber, very thinly sliced
1/4 of a small granny smith apple, quartered and thinly sliced
1/3 of a small lemon, very thinly sliced into rounds
1 tbl. George's Aloe Vera Juice 
1 quart filtered water
*Add even more of these delicious plant foods to amp up the flavor.
Optional: Dash Pink Himalayan Sea Salt or Cayenne Pepper

Directions:
1. Add all ingredients to a one-quart mason jar. Sit out or place in the fridge until you would like to drink. Refrigerate or drink within 2 hour of making to preserve fruit.
Recipe and photo by Keri Marino.

Keri Marino is an internationally Registered Yoga Teacher, Propmaker, and Yoga Therapist.  She owns and operates Yoga Unique LLC offering mobile Private classes, Yoga Therapy and Yoga props. Keri teachers both privately and publicly around the Greenville area. Check out more here: YogaUnique