80---Antioxidant Agua

I make flavored water frequently, especially during the summer months. Fruits (and cucumbers) can add a great flavor to this essential beverage, but I never really thought of it the way Julie Lanford, a Cancer Dietitian, does. Check out this great article from her on Vitamin Water. I love her no-nonsense way of presenting the facts. Here's an excerpt:

"The "Vitamin Water" brand is actually water, sugar and then synthetic vitamins added to that. No, they are not vitamins that come from real food, they are man-made synthetic versions. Synthetic versions aren't all bad. They are sometimes necessary and helpful for people with certain deficiencies. But the bottom line is that your body is fueled best by vitamins that come from REAL FOOD!"

Holla Julie! No supplement can produce the same effects that you will get from the real deal!

Yes, some vitamins and minerals will seep from the fruit into the water! AND- no sugar or other "stuff" (you know how I feel about "stuff"). Feel free to add any fruit you like to make your own flavor! This one is especially refreshing:

Strawberry Cucumber Antioxidant Agua
Makes 2 gallons

2 gallons filtered water (if you have a well-- use it!)
10 organic strawberries, washed thoroughly, stemmed and quartered
1 whole organic cucumber, washed thoroughly and sliced into 1/2" slices
Ice


In a large glass container, add water, ice, strawberries and cucumber. Refrigerate overnight and enjoy!