Revitalising drinks

For me, the summer months are so precious that I want to feel my very best every day. That’s why I’ve created these recipes of truly revitalising drinks that are not only refreshing during the hot weather, but energising and good for your health long-term. 

Many of the drinks we buy from supermarkets or during our days out will look appealing — colourful labels stating the various health benefits that convince us to buy them. And they may even offer an immediate refreshment, but how often will you feel your energy drop afterwards? 

As an alternative, these recipes have your health in mind, helping to support steady blood sugar levels which is crucial for energy and mood. Their tastes may take time to get used to, but they’re worth it! 

Cherry lemonade

Serves 3

Ingredients

• 250g frozen sour cherries
• 1 litre coconut water
• A pinch of sea salt
• 3 lemons, peeled
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1.5 litres of water (filtered or spring)

Method

1. In a blender, combine all the ingredients until smooth.
2. Pour into a jug and keep chilled in the fridge until ready to serve. 

Five-flavour green juice

Serves 2

Ingredients

• 1 cucumber
• 1 lemon, peeled
• 1cm chunk of fresh ginger, peeled
• 4 sticks of celery
• 3 carrots, peeled
• 2 apples, cores removed
• 3 handfuls of salad greens (dandelion leaves are a great addition!)

Method

1. Chop the fruit and vegetables into chunks.
2. If you have a juicer, add the ingredients and juice. Depending on your preference, drink immediately or leave to chill in the fridge.

Vegetables are an essential part of a healthy diet. Raw greens are especially beneficial, containing chlorophyll, essential minerals, and vitamins. Cucumbers are anti-inflammatory and rich in vitamin K (important for blood clotting and helping wounds to heal). Lemon juice is rich in vitamin C, helping to protect and maintain cells, healthy skin, blood vessels, and bones. Lemon juice also stimulates the liver and the body’s production of bile, thus aiding digestion. Finally, ginger, when used in moderation, balances serotonin and dopamine, and supports healthy blood pressure. 

Upgrading your water

Many people have an aversion to drinking the volume of water they need to maintain health — from my own observations, this is due to disliking the taste or the volume of water required.

My advice is to drink water in small quantities throughout the day. If possible, buy a water filter to keep in the fridge, and fill up a large bottle to take with you. While plain water is great for hydration, adding one part coconut water can help keep our bodies in balance (thanks to those electrolytes). To boost flavour and get some additional health benefits, add a dash of freshly squeezed lemon or orange juice. A pinch of Himalayan sea salt is another great addition as these contain trace minerals and are very different to refined salt.

These tips are particularly useful if you enjoy fizzy drinks — simply switch out plain water for sparkling, and you have a nutritious, refreshing tipple!

This article was published in Happiful Magazine (Issue 76). You can order print copies online, or read the e-magazine for free on the Happiful app.

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