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How to make lemon water that will keep you hydrated and refreshed and will help replace sugary drinks with a zero-calorie, zero-sugar option!
A few years ago, I turned to infused water recipes and lemon chia fresca to encourage myself to drink more water as part of my push to learn more healthy habits. With the addition of fruits and herbs, plain ol’ boring water takes on a subtle taste that is perfect for increasing water intake with a boost of nutrients.
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The ingredients
Learn how to make lemon water with just two base ingredients.
- Lemons: Make sure to use fresh lemon juice, not bottled juice. I recommend using unwaxed lemons if you’re adding lemon slices to the water (otherwise, you’ll need to remove the wax yourself in hot water). If wanted, you could add a couple of slices of other citrus fruit, too.
- Plain water: The temperature of water to use is a highly debated topic. Cold water is said to help burn extra calories. Warm water will extract more polyphenols. I prefer to drink mine at room temperature, which is the best of both worlds, but vary it according to the season.
How to make lemon water
It’s really simple to make lemon water. Simply juice the lemon or slice it into thin slices (I do half-half) and add it to a glass or a pitcher of water.
Remove any seeds from the lemon slices if preferred.
If using lemon slices, use something to gently muddle them and release the juices from the lemon. Stir and enjoy!
When making a pitcher with several cups of water, I recommend allowing it to steep for at least an hour or two to infuse with more flavor.
How Long Does Lemon Water Last
I recommend consuming it within a day, up to 2 days if needed, to make the most of the benefits of lemon water. Also, the lemon rind adds more bitterness to the drink over time.
How to enjoy lemon water
Make ahead: If you want to add lemon slices to water without having to slice them fresh each time, you can freeze lemon slices or even prepare lemon juice ice cubes to defrost overnight in the fridge or add straight to your glass of water.
Store: I like to store a large pitcher of lemon water (often with extra fruits and herbs) on my kitchen counter to drink from throughout the day. In the summer months, I often place it in my refrigerator.
I find this and other flavored waters have had a massive impact on boosting my water intake so I can easily enjoy the benefits of drinking water.
FAQs
The acid in lemon can erode the teeth’s enamel over time when consumed in large quantities, though so can so many fruits, sugars, coffee, and other items we consume daily. To do minimal damage, I usually drink my homemade lemon water through a reusable glass straw, rinse my mouth after drinking it, and ensure I keep up with a good oral hygiene routine. Wait at least an hour after drinking it to brush your teeth, too.
I recommend between 1-2 tsp lemon juice per 8oz glass of water. Or use a couple of slices. Of course, you can also adjust to taste.
More Hydrating Recipes
If you try this easy lemon water recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts/questions below. Also, I’d appreciate a recipe card rating below, and feel free to tag me in your recipe recreations on Instagram @Alphafoodie!
How to Make Lemon Water
Equipment
- 1 Large pitcher
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 citrus juicer or reamer
Ingredients
- 1 large lemon (half sliced thin, half juiced)
- 6 cups cold water
- Ice, for serving
Instructions
- Wash the lemon well and pat it dry. Slice half of it into thin rounds and remove any seeds. Juice the remaining half.
- Add the lemon slices to the bottom of a large pitcher. Use a wooden spoon to gently press down on the slices a few times to release some of their juice.
- Pour in the fresh lemon juice, then add the cold water. Stir to combine.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving, or up to 2 hours for a more developed flavor. Serve over ice. Drink within 1 day for best taste.
Video
Notes
– Cucumber lemon water: Add a few thin cucumber slices.
– Honey lemon water: Stir in honey dissolved in a small amount of warm water first, then add to the pitcher.
– Lemon ginger water: Add a teaspoon of minced fresh ginger or 1 to 2 thin slices.
– Mint lemon water: Add fresh mint leaves to taste.
– Sparkling lemon water: Use carbonated water instead of still and serve immediately.
– Cinnamon or cayenne: Add a small pinch or dash.
– Lime or orange slices alongside the lemon.
– Chia seeds: Stir in a teaspoon for added fiber and omega-3s. For more flavored water ideas, visit alphafoodie.com/flavored-water-recipes/
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
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