So, a bit off our usual course today, but before we get to this yummy flavored water, I wanted to talk some about health and fitness goals.  This is something that is at the forefront of my mind, well, all the time, and I have a feeling the same could be true for a lot of you.  After a lengthy stint of eating too much sugar, I find myself  in that dreaded position of needing to make some lifestyle changes to get back to feeling great about my body and my health.

After struggling over the last year with a variety of diet/exercise plans without success, I’ve returned to a grain-free, sugar-free, lactose-free diet that was really successful for me a few years ago.  I’ve talked a  little about this diet in the past (here) and how it was critical for healing my digestive system.  After a strict year on the diet, I was able to incorporate all foods back into my diet.  This time, I’m using the Specific Carbohydrate Diet to eat healthier and to lose weight.  The diet includes meats, eggs, nuts, fruits, veggies, some cheese, and homemade yogurt.

So…anyone else out there eating grain-free right now?  Sugar-free?  Looking to share ideas?  I’d love to support each other!  You let me know if this is something we should talk about more, okay?

Alright, whether you’re looking for a little change-up to your daily water intake or you’re setting up some “fancy” water for guests, here’s one of my favorite combos to flavor water.  Try this, it’s refreshing and sweet and just a great way to drink your water.

Orange Basil Infused Water

1 orange, sliced
1 lemon, sliced
2-3 sprigs of fresh basil

Instructions: Wash and slice the orange and lemon. Place fruits and herbs in the bottom of a pitcher. Use a long wooden spoon to mash the fruits gently, just enough to get the juices ready to meddle with the water.  Fill the pitcher with ice and water.  Drink up!

I fill a pitcher for myself in the morning and drink it throughout the day.  By evening, the water starts tasting bitter from the citrus rind, but it is delicious throughout the whole day.  One thing I know about weight loss is that you must get your water in every single day.  I like to use the formula – 1/2 your body weight in ounces – as an easy way to remember how much water I should be drinking every day to facilitate my weight loss goals.