04/16

Hydration Waters Decoded

With all the “trendy” foods and drinks, it can be hard to know what actually works and what’s just … well, a trend. If you’ve ever walked down the aisle in your health food store, you’ve probably seen rows and rows of different types of waters. Besides the taste—what makes them different? It can be extremely confusing!

Hydration, especially in the heat, is extremely important. Most of us don’t consume enough water in our lives, which can cause some serious problems. Since summer is right around the corner, it’s the perfect time to figure out what all these waters are once and for all. They are a great addition to regular water when you need some flavor.

Here are some of the most popular options—decoded.

Coconut Water

This is our household favorite! Not only is it refreshing but it also is great for replenishing your body with electrolytes and minerals that you lose during exercise or heat. Coconut water is also great for replenishing after sickness or after a few too many glasses of champagne. Also, FYI—this isn’t the coconut taste that you’re thinking of. This water, from the coconut, has a nuttier taste that’s delicious!

Cactus Water

I know. Desert plant? Hydration? Just keep reading. Cactus water, which is popular in South America and Mexico, has finally made its way into the US. The plant itself is actually a succulent which means that it stores it’s own water and is self-sustaining. In other words, this water is like moisture in a bottle. Just like coconut water, it’s full of antioxidants and electrolytes to replenish and hydrate. Beauty editors have been super into this water, too since it has anti-inflammatory properties that banish those puffy under eyes. For those who like a sweeter taste, you’ll be a fan of cactus water’s light, berry flavor while still being low in sugar and calories.

Maple Water

This water is still relatively new on the market. Maple water is the watery substance collected from the maple tree—which is part of the first step of making syrup. The difference between maple water and the others is that it doesn’t contain as many electrolyte properties but does contain abscisic acid (ABA) which helps get rid of sugar in the blood stream and helps with immune function. It’s also a lower sugar option!

Watermelon Water

Watermelon water is PACKED with potassium aka the electrolyte powerhouse. This fruit actually is so hydrating and nutritious so there is no need for extra water added into the process of cold pressing the juice. The properties in the fruit also help aid in weight loss and reducing inflammation, which makes it a beauty juice as well as hydration.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera has always been the soothing and healing ingredient we use when we get a sunburn. It also has healing properties for the rest of our body, too! Like most of the other waters, it helps with hydration and to replenish. It’s also been discovered that Aloe Vera soothes the stomach, too. This is especially important for those with IBS and other stomach upsets. It helps soothe and protect the intestinal track from the inside out.

To try them out for yourself, check out these companies: