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Hydration is not the sexiest of words, but it is a word that should be celebrated and promoted, considering it is the core function of most drinks. Yet, the humble glass of water will need a major makeover if it is to receive wider attention and deserved acclaim.
The simple act of hydrating doesn’t need to be dull, even health experts are now extolling the virtues of the many alcohol-free alternatives and functional soft drinks, such as Purdey’s natural energy drinks, currently available to help encourage people to drink more. Of course, the failsafe and trusted options of plant-based juices, shots and milks, such those in Plenish’s range, offer visitors and patients alike a quick health-boosting option.
Most people will understand why it is important to drink liquids throughout the day. “It is well known that drinking two litres of water a day helps to keep our mind and body healthy,” says Royal Society for Public Health director of policy and public affairs Dr Jyotsna Vohra. “Yet, many of us only drink when we start to feel thirsty, and the cognitive and physical effects of dehydration have already started to set in.”
We’ve all seen pitchers and dispensers filled with mint and cucumber water which encourage people to adopt the habit of drinking little and often throughout the day, adds Dr Vohra. In fact, providing free drinking water throughout a venue can have a big and positive impact on health, with visitors more likely to stop and take a sip. But there is an argument that more could be done to encourage better hydration.
Hydration is ‘vital’ for health
“Keeping well hydrated is essential for good health,” explains British Dietetic Association spokesperson and registered dietitian Nichola Ludlam-Raine. “It makes up our blood, and it plays an important role in helping our vital organs, such as our heart and brain, to function optimally. It’s also key for a healthy digestive system and helps to regulate our body’s core temperature.”
Over 70% of the human body is made up of water, further highlighting the need for people to top up on a regular basis, with a minimum of six to eight glasses each day depending on the person and their environment. Even caffeinated beverages such as tea, coffee and iced tea, contribute to hydration, adds Ludlam-Raine.
Interesting bases for hydrating drinks
Kombucha – A fermented tea, kombucha is claimed to have probiotic benefits and can help to add sour notes to drinks.
Cold-pressed juice – Made by pressing rather than blitzing fruit and vegetables, cold-pressed juices offer raw flavours and are packed with the vitamins, antioxidants and minerals of their former hosts
Shrubs – Often used in cocktails to add a sweet-sour flavours, shrubs are made with small amounts of sugar and vinegar as well as fruit and vegetable juices
Iced tea – Tea is claimed to be full of antioxidants and other benefits, and can provide a good base to many thirst-quenching long drinks. Think about herbal and fruit teas, as well as green and other variants to add interest
Seltzers and sparkling waters – The perfect way to add sophistication to a healthy, hydrating drink. Sparkling waters can be used to top off juices and teas or can be the star of the show themselves with the addition of natural fruit syrups and cordials
Non-alcoholic spirits – usually associated with non-drinkers in pubs and bars, alcohol-free spirits are growing in popularity. Many are made with botanicals and fruits, the flavours from which are trapped within the liquid and can form the basis of a healthy and hydrating gin-less tonic, for example