Water Infusion for Digestive Health
Staying hydrated is an important part of maintaining a healthy and active digestive system. However, what you add to your water can make all the difference when it comes to getting the added support you need.
This delicious and refreshing water infusion recipe not only has an invigorating taste and aroma, it also combines ingredients that provide specific nutrients that will aid in the digestive process.
What you need:
- 1 Large water jug
- 1 cucumber
- 1 ginger root, peeled (about the length of your thumb)
- 2-3 cinnamon sticks
- ⅓ cup fresh mint leaves, washed
Method:
- Wash, then thinly slice your cucumber (skin and all) and place inside the jug along with the cinnamon sticks and fresh mint leaves.
- Grate the ginger into the jug.
- Fill the jug up with filtered water and allow to chill and infuse for a couple of hours before serving.
- Enjoy!
How does this water infusion recipe improve your digestion, you ask?
Cucumber - Cucumber has a mild alkalizing effect in the stomach that helps with acid reflux, without overly neutralizing the digestive juices needed to break down proteins and other nutrients.
Cinnamon - ‘Cinnamaldehyde’, the primary component of cinnamon, has both antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping protect you from food poisoning and other digestive complaints. It is also incredibly rich in antioxidants, giving it substantial anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve digestive conditions such as cramping and bloating.
Ginger - Ginger is a renowned digestive aid that not only helps ease nausea, it also stimulates the production of saliva, bile and gastric juices that are all essential in the digestive process. This delicious spicy flavoured root also contains potent anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce bloating and cramps.
Mint - Menthol, a compound within mint leaves, helps protect the stomach lining from the negative effects of ethanol and indomethacin, which means it helps prevent gastric ulcers. It is also packed full of antioxidants, which have an anti-inflammatory property, helping ease symptoms of digestive distress. Plus it will help keep your breath smelling fresh and minty!
Water - Keeping yourself hydrated is essential for the function of your digestive system, and is key to keeping your digestive system flowing smoothly.
