How do you flavor your water?

When I talk with people and ask them if they drink water I find the answer is no. Of the people that drink water a few decide to change the flavor of their water by adding a water enhancer. I believe changing the taste of water in order to add variety can be a fun idea that we can embrace in a natural way. First, let’s take a glimpse into a few of the ingredients in some of the water enhancers. Water enhancers could enhance your drink but what else are they doing? They are touted as safe, but what’s in them? I’m not opposed to adding healthy, natural alternatives to our water. Let’s explore a few of the ingredients found in these enhancers and we will discuss options for enhancing our water naturally.

Mio contains several ingredients, let’s take a look at them. Propylene glycol is also found in anti freeze, brake fluid and snack foods. There is a pharmaceutical form of Propylene Glycol, however, studies haven’t shown that it is completely safe. It is safe in small quantities but how does one know if he is taking too much? It is found in over the counter medications, some snack foods and cosmetic products. In Europe, they are permitted to add small amounts to cosmetics and an even smaller amount in food. The FDA states that overdose to Propylene Glycol may result in seizures, nervous system disorders, contact dermatitis, kidney disorders etc. Our next ingredient is aspartame. Aspartame has been touted as the sugar-free alternative to sugar. According to Center for Science in the Public Interest, aspartame caused cancer in mammary glands, leukemias and lymphomas in mice. Another study showed liver and lung cancer in mice. The scientists that performed these studies strongly suggest children and pregnant mothers not partake in the use of aspartame and are asking government officials to re-examine their stance on this matter. Sucralose is another sugar free alternative that may come by the name Splenda. Researchers suggests it unfavorably impacts gut health affecting microbiomes and enzymes. This could be one answer to so many sufferers of IBS.

According to Environmental Working Group, Crystal Light was considered a “10” which marks a food that could be a high concern to one’s health. Crystal light ingredients contain Citric Acid, Potassium Citrates, Sodium Citrates, Maltodextrin, and Lecithin (Soy). These may seem natural, however, according to EWG.org these ingredients have the possibility of being genetically engineered food. With this process, we are developing “super weeds” and heightened pesticide use. The safety of consuming genetically engineered foods is still unknown. Look for food choices that contain GMO-Free. Acesulphame Potassium was designed to be a low calorie sweetener. What research has found instead of it reducing our sweet craving it actually enhances our craving for more sweets. BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) has its own set of health concerns. Different studies show that it is an endocrine disruptor in animals, and is carcinogenic in humans. Artificial colors like Yellow-5 Red-40 have had a history of causing hyperactivity in children. Could this be why we are seeing more ADHD in our children?

I believe changing the taste of water in order to add variety can be a fun idea that we can embrace in natural way. As a health coach, I recommend adding fresh fruit such as lemon, lime, orange slices, cucumber, mango, berries and other fruit to water. Some people want a faster way to change the taste of water, I recommend using Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade essential oils to water that is in glass containers. You may choose to add 1 drop of an essential oil such as Wild Orange, Peppermint, Lemon, or Lime. One drop is all that is needed to 8-16 oz of water.

Angela

Healthy Living Chick

*NOTE: Essential oils in plastic will cause the plastic to leach into your water. Always use in glass, stainless steel or ceramic.