Staying hydrated has always been a top priority for me. I grew up in the dry mountain climate of Colorado and learned early on the importance of drinking water. Now, I always have a water bottle within reach. Call me crazy, but I also love the taste of plain water, even tap water, so sampling fruity infusions whenever I visit a spa is a special treat. If you’re looking to upgrade your spa water to encourage parched clients to drink up, check out these healthy combinations from Christopher Calapai, D.O., osteopathic physician and health advisor to the New York Rangers, and Kally Papantoniou, M.D., board-certified dermatologist.
- Mango Ginger This combo might seem weird, but adding the health benefits of ginger and the antioxidant power of mangoes is a surprisingly tasty mix. “Mangoes contain so many vitamins that help boost your immune system. It has antioxidants that maintain youthful glowing skin and aid in the production of blood cells,” says Dr. Christopher Calapai D.O. an anti-aging expert and long-time health advisor to the New York Rangers hockey team. “Ginger is also helpful in fighting infection, has been linked to lower cholesterol levels, may reduce muscle aches, and helps digestion."
- Grapefruit Rosemary Recently rosemary was found to be the main ingredient eaten by residents of an Italian village with one of the highest populations of people who live past 100. “Rosemary improves circulation and sends more blood to the brain which is linked to greater concentration and potentially reduces risk of Alzheimer’s,” says Calapai. Grapefruit is not only delicious but it’s a natural fat burner, boosts metabolism, and cleanses your liver.
- Watermelon Honeydew Cantaloupe This melon mix is refreshing and perfect for quenching thirst. “This melon variety tastes great and is amazing for your skin,” says Papantoniou. “Melons are immensely hydrating, meaning more hydration per cup of water. They are also chock-full of antioxidants that keep skin clear plus they contain vitamins that promote collagen production which helps skin cell turnover.”
- Citrus Mint Pick your favorite citrus fruits, cut up into slices, and add some crushed mint. “Adding mint to your water is not only extra refreshing but also improves digestive health and can speed up your metabolism,” says Calapai. “Mint actually contains salicylic acid, a potent acne fighter,” says Papantoniou. “It’s also well known for it’s anti-inflammatory properties which work to calm irritation both on your skin or internally.”
- Cucumber Lavender Elevate the standard cucumber water with this calming botanical. “Cucumber contains many skin friendly minerals like magnesium, potassium, and silicon,” says Papantoniou. “This mix is especially healthy,” says Calapai “Cucumbers are powerful detoxifiers, flushing out any waste in your system. Adding crushed lavender to the mix not only adds a beautiful aroma but can also help digestion as lavender contains polyphenols that reduce bad bacteria in your gut, making your system run smoother.”
- Pineapple Coconut Water Add large chunks of pineapple to raw coconut water and refrigerate overnight. The coconut-pineapple flavor combo is delicious and reminiscent of a piña colada sans sugar and calories. Although this is not pure H2O, coconut water contains electrolytes for an extra boost of hydration not found in water. “Pineapple is yet another fruit that aids in collagen production,” says Papantoniou “This is not just great for beautiful skin, collagen also has a major role in bone health and tissue repair.”