TOP HYDRATION ENERGY DRINKS TO BEAT SUMMER HEAT
When we hear of summertime, we think about sunrise walks at the beach, diving in the pool, doing barbeques out in the yard, licking our favorite ice creams and attending to outdoor concerts. While having fun, we should note that it’s important for us to take care of ourselves, protect our skin and hair from sun burn, stay well-hydrated and wear light colors. The more proper fluid intake you have, the more balanced and well-nourished your body stays. Remember, staying hydrated is important for our body parts to function properly, to get rid of the waste in your body, to maintain body temperature and ensure our body gets rid of excess heat through sweating.
Good hydration means getting the right amount of water before, during and after your daily activities and exercise routine. It helps transport essential nutrients and minerals to all parts of your body to give energy, keep you healthy and well-nourished. Good hydration means replenishment of your essential body nutrients post-workout or your regular exercise heat. And here, we bring a list of 6 homemade, easy and simple hydration drinks to beat summer heat and keep you energized in these hot, sweating weathers.
Key Ingredients for Hydration Energy Drinks
A Menu of 6 Hydration Energy Drinks
Tips for Customizing Your Hydration Energy Drinks
Tips To Sweeten Your Hydration Energy Drink Naturally
- Stevia: A natural sweetener that is derived from the leaves of a shrub found in South America, scientifically called “Stevia rebaudiana“. This can be extracted from one of the two compounds called glycosides — stevioside and rebaudioside A. When tested on humans and animals, research states that using Stevia in place of sugar may help prevent excessive weight gain and balance blood sugar levels. Stevia is 450 times sweeter than sugar and may taste slightly different. Overall, stevia is considered safe, more research is needed in various dimensions.
- Monk Fruit Sweetener: Native to China, its extract is obtained from the Siraitia grosvenorii plant, is 300 times sweeter than sugar and contains no calories. The sweetness basically comes from the mogrosides, mainly mogroside V. It has no affect on blood sugar levels but may aid in weight loss. However, more research needs to be done on using monk fruit sweetener. When using this sweetener, be sure to properly read the label, since it is often used with other sweeteners.
- Fruit Purees: Using applesauce or similar fruit purees in place of sugar is an excellent way to sweeten your hydration energy drinks or baking items such as muffins, cakes and buns. Along with natural sugars, all fruits offer a package of nutrients such as bananas are full of essential vitamins and minerals such as Potassium, Magnesium, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C. When buying ready-made fruit purees, make sure to opt for the ones which have no added sugars.
- Honey: A thick, sugary, golden syrup produced by honeybees. Containing trace amounts of vital nutrients such as minerals and vitamins, its types of plant compounds may vary based on certain factors such as the type of bee and the flower it was feeding on. Compounds such as honey polyphenols provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. Honey also has a slightly lower Glycemic Index (GI) than table sugar. This makes honey beneficial than sugars but still when choosing to buy a honey, be moderate as it is still high in calories.
- Dates: Coming fresh from palm trees, this dried fruit is high in energy and are a great alternative to sugar. Dates are packed with a list of nutrients such as Manganese, Potassium, Vitamin B6, polyphenol antioxidants and many other vital minerals and vitamins. They can be perfectly used in baking cookies, muffins or making energy bars. Also, they serve as an excellent sweetener for adding to homemade hydration energy drinks and smoothies to keep you fresh during hot summers. High in natural sugar content and calories, research has shown that dates do not significantly affect blood sugar levels even in people with diabetes.
Herbs and Spices for Extra Flavor and Benefits in Hydration Energy Drinks
Additional Tips For Staying Hydrated During Hot Summers
Symptoms Of Dehydration
Staying hydrated and energized during summers is vital for overall health; physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. The recipes provided in this blog along with free printable recipe cards are ideal to beat off the summer heat this time and keep the body well-nourished. The ingredients are easily available and the recipes are quick to make. We encourage you to try these summer hydration energy drinks at home, experiment with your own creations and give us your valuable feedback. Do not forget to try our Post-Workout Prime Hydration Drinks during hot dashing summers. *Remember to consult a nutritionist/doctor if undergoing a medical condition and before beginning to use a new product. Stay refreshed and healthy!
