Although fresh water is essentially absent of nutrients, its consumption is extremely valuable for optimal health. Dehydration can be a major concern in all populations, but most common in the elderly and in warm climate areas and summers. Keep the body hydrated with these 13 ways to make your water taste better.

Flavored Water Recipes and Ideas

1. Add Fresh Herbs 

Herbs are an excellent way to not only spice up water, but increase nutrient and antioxidant content. Fresh mint and rosemary are just a couple options to amplify a simple glass of water.

2. "Berry" Refreshing

Lightly muddle blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries for water loaded with antioxidants. Additionally, frozen berries can keep water chilled on a hot, sunny day. Make a large pitcher and keep in the fridge for naturally sweetened water that is conveniently on hand.

3. Squeezed Lemon 

Although the concept of lemon served with water is not new, it is an excellent mean to create a refreshing glass of water. So next time your waiter asks, "Would you like lemon with your water," go for it and squeeze away!

4. Cool as A Cucumber 

Sliced cucumber is a subtle, yet energizing twist on water, especially on a warm summer's day! Add sliced cucumbers into a glass or pitcher and drink cooled.

5. 'Water'melon 

Blend four cups cubed, seedless watermelon until chunks are broken down and pureed. Place watermelon mixture into a pitcher and add water, approximately five to six cups or until filled. Garnish with lime and serve chilled!

6. Creative Cubes 

Use a simple cube tray to create a not-so-simple water. Add small berries or chopped tropical fruits and fresh herbs to the tray. Fill with water, freeze, and pop the cubes into your next glass of water!

7. Water Flavorings 

Flavor enhancers have grown way beyond Kool-Aid. Powders and concentrated liquids not only provide extensive flavor options, but at a low calorie cost. To keep sugar consumption in check, choose flavorings that lack added sugars.

8. Steep with Teabags 

Nowadays, tea goes beyond just "sweet" and "unsweet." A wide variety of herbs and spices fill up teabags and truly ignite the flavor profile. Sip on hot tea or a refreshingly chilled glass. If you are feeling really motivated, create your very own teabags!

Mix It Up

Although the ideas and recipes suggested above are noteworthy on their own, combine flavors for endless options. Take a sip out of these water flavoring combos:

9. Apple Pie 

For a healthy twist on apple pie, soak sliced apples and cinnamon for a couple of hours and serve. For a true aromatic flavor, steep with a teabag loaded with earthy spices. This apple pie alternative can be served warm or chilled.

10. Citrus Galore 

Transform standard lemon water by creating a citrusy concoction with freshly squeezed lemon, lime, and/or oranges. Top with tap or spritzer water for the ultimate refresher.

11. Peachy Keen 

Naturally sweeten water with a drizzle of honey and fresh or frozen peach slices. Garnish with mint or basil to compliment the honeyed flavors.

12. Strawberry Mint 

Muddle together fresh strawberries and mint leaves at the bottom of a water pitcher. Fill with water and let marry together in the fridge overnight. Serve in glasses and use frozen strawberries as ice cubes.

13. Cherry Limeade

Skip out on traditional cherry limeades loaded with sugar. After taking the pits out of fresh cherries, mix together with lime wedges. The longer you let sit, the bolder the flavor!

As you start to experiment more with naturally-flavored water, ideas will effortlessly start to flow. Have fun with flavors while keeping your body hydrated!