Remember when coconut water was the new kid on the block? Well those days are over. Exotic waters are super trendy, but are they really any better than the liquid that comes from the tap in your sink? I’m here to get to the bottom of these 6 exotic waters, their benefits, and some suggestions on how to enjoy them.
1.) Maple Tree Water
Not to be confused with maple syrup, maple tree water comes straight from maple trees—before it is concentrated into syrup. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals, especially energy-boosting B vitamins. If you’re counting calories, maple tree water is very low in calories and sugar. Oh and it just happens to have prebiotics as well. But if you’re looking for a drink that has electrolytes to replenish what is lost in sweat, this might not be your best choice.
2.) Artichoke Water
Yes, a vegetable can be made into water. By extracting all the water and nutrients from artichokes, some companies have started to make artichoke water. I love artichokes because they are helpful in improving the breakdown of fats in digestion, and can also help with heartburn. Just check the ingredient list, because often sugar is added to provide sweetness and enhance taste.
3.) Prickly Pear Cactus Water
These dessert plants have to stay hydrated in the heat, so it only makes sense that they would help us stay hydrated too. Prickly pear cactus water is low in calories, and sugar. It is also a source of antioxidants, and the prebiotic inulin. Just don’t drink too much, or you might get diarrhea.
4.) Watermelon Water
Nothing screams summer to me like a juicy slice of watermelon. Now you can get fresh watermelon taste all year long, with watermelon water! (Because let’s be real—watermelons in January don’t taste good). I drink watermelon water as a beauty tonic because it is rich in antioxidants vitamin C and vitamin A. Watermelon water even has more potassium than coconut water—which you need as an electrolyte and also for heart health. Just watch how much you’re sipping, because watermelon water is higher on the glycemic index and isn’t low in sugar.
5.) Aloe Water
Aloe vera juice has been used traditionally to support digestive health. It’s also great for your skin. It helps to hydrate tired skin, soothes skin irritations and reduces puffiness. Try adding it to a smoothie for a tropical Aloe Coconut treat.
6.) Coconut Water
Good ol’ coconut water. Now not just available in natural health food stores, you can even find it in drugstores and convenience stores, making it an easy choice to grab. I call coconut water nature’s best sports drink, because it provides to provide fuel and hydration during workouts, so you can train harder and for longer durations. Just watch the label, because many contain way too much sugar. Opt for the natural variety and ensure there are no added sugars. Coconut water is one of my favorite smoothie bases. Try it in a Blood Orange Smoothie or a Pineapple Green Smoothie.
Have you tried any exotic waters?
Find More From Peggy K
Vegan and Raw Food Recipes here >>
Nutrition and Health Tips here >>
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