Beginning of Week 6

Before going on my 2 mile jog today I decided to create a fantastic Refreshing Hydration water mixture. It is always a good idea to stay hydrated while exercising. 

Time to eliminate those toxins in your body with this refreshing hydration water made of cucumber, lemons, limes, and mint. I add a tray of ice cubes to the container before adding the ingredients and then finishing off with filling it with water. 

Benefits:

Cucumbers: 
This vegetable is a good source of B vitamins and are made of 95% water. The high water content and dietary fiber in these green veggies are very effective in ridding the body of toxins from your digestive system and they also help aid digestion.  Cucumbers are known to contain lariciresinal, pinoresinol, and secoisolariciresinol. Of which have a strong history of research in connection with reduced risk of cancer types; breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and prostate cancer. Cucumber juice contains a hormone which is needed by cells of the pancreas for producing insulin which has been found to be beneficial to diabetic patients. Researches also found that a compound called sterols in cucumbers may help reduce cholesterol levels. Cucumbers also contain a lot of potassium, magnesium and fiber. These work effectively in regulating your blood pressure. This awesome vegetable is also a great source for silica, which is known to help promote joint health by strengthening the connective tissues. 

Lemons:
Lemons are a great source for calcium, vitamin C, magnesium and potassium that improve the appearance and condition of your hair, skin and nails.Who doesn't want that? Due to the amount of vitamin C found in lemons it is known to give your immune system a boost. The potassium is great for your heart, brain, and nerve function. Like cucumbers, lemon juice loosens toxins in your digestive tract. They also help relieve symptoms of indigestion; heartburn, burping, and bloating. Another great benefit of lemons is that they contain pectin fiber, which assists in fighting hunger cravings. Ironically, by drinking lemon in your water on a regular basis, it will decrease the acidity in your body, which is where disease states occur. It removes uric acid in your joints, which is one of the main causes of inflammation. When lemon juice is in your digestive tract it gives your body more energy and helps reduce anxiety and depression. 

Limes:
Limes contain calcium and folate, both nutrients are important for post-menopausal woman and woman of child-bearing age. One fresh lime contains 22 milligram of calcium and over five microgram of folate. The limonoid compounds in limes have been proven to prevent colon cancers of the; colon, stomach and blood. Lime juice contains more citric acid than orange or grapefruit juice. Citric acid is a natural inhibitor of kidney stones made of crystallized calcium. 

Mint:
Mint is capable of calming your stomach. the aroma activates the saliva glands that produce digestive enzymes. As a result, o your digestion becomes more fluent. The aroma and leaves are also great for treating nausea. The aroma of mint is so powerful is can relieve respiratory congestion by opening up the nose, throat, and lungs, as well as helping to overcome a cough. Ingesting mint on a regular basis can help those with asthma because it can provide relaxation and help relieve breathing. Some enzymes contained in mint leaves have also been shown to help fight against cancer. 

Bonus* ~ all of these also give you fresh breath! 

Spread the Running Joy!
~Maddie J.