SUMMER is here, and the heat is intense! At times I am finding that no matter how much water I drink, I still feel thirsty. It’s so easy to get dehydrated with the temperatures being so high.

Drinking water is a necessity. However, many people (including children) do not drink enough water on a daily basis and put themselves at risk of dehydration — and other related ailments such as headaches, joint pains, obesity, and indigestion.

Children are particularly at risk because they are generally more active and their bodies are still developing and growing. We all know by now that sodas (including diet sodas) and sugar-loaded drinks are not great for our health but are still chosen by many as the go-to beverage when thirsty or hot. The most common reason: most people just do not like the taste of plain water. They would prefer if it was flavoured or sweet.

Fruit-infused water is a wonderful way to increase your water intake. And it tastes great. Since discovering and making my own fruit-infused water, my thirst, on most occasions, has been quenched. Not only is it refreshing as a summer drink, it also has a host of nutritional benefits. I also love that once I am done drinking, I have something to eat as a bonus.

10 reasons to drink fruit-infused water

1. Real vitamins and minerals from the fruits are infused into the water, bringing life to your water and a boost for your immune system.

2. Helps boost mood, concentration and productivity.

3. Very low in calories

4. No artificial additives or sweeteners

5. Healthy and refreshing way to add taste and flavour to your drinking water.

6. More filling than drinking plain water; therefore cravings are reduced

7. Aids digestion and boosts metabolism.

8. Aids weight loss.

9. Inexpensive

10. Attractive and appealing (great for dinner parties)

Flavour ideas

* Watermelon and mint

* Pineapple and ginger

* Cucumber and lime

* Orange and lime

* Pineapple and grapefruit

* Pomegranate and raspberry

* Mango and ginger

* Apple and cinnamon

* Pineapple and orange

* Ginger and lime

* Cilantro and lime

Bena Nakawuki is an internationally trained and certified raw food teacher, wellness coach and editor. She is currently the only certified member of the International Association of Raw Food Coaches and Teachers in Jamaica and an ambassador for the Branson Centre of Entrepreneurship Caribbean. Bena is the owner of The Lotus Line and may be contacted at TheLotusLine@gmail.com, www.facebook.com – The Lotus Line of Natural Health Products and Services, and twitter.com/TheLotusLine.