With no added sugar, this refreshing sparkler is a wonderful way to hydrate and enjoy the fresh tastes of pink grapefruit and pineapple. Plus, my best hydration tips! Thank you to Blendtec for helping me to share this recipe with you.
If you have been following along on my Facebook page, you’ll know that today is the first day of the Healthy New Year Six-Week Challenge that I’m co-hosting with my friend, Liz of The Lemon Bowl. If you’re not here for the challenge, but just want a gulp of this grapefruit and pineapple sparkler, that’s okay, too. Gulp away!
We’re kicking off the challenge with one of the most important things you can do for your body: hydration!
Hydration has always been a struggle for me, mostly because I get too busy during the day and forget to refill my glass of water. But I pay for that forgetfulness…big time! Headaches, food cravings (when I’m not really hungry), dry skin, limp hair and general fatigue. A dehydrated “me” is not a pleasant or particularly attractive person to be around. My answer is my beloved SodaStream. For some reason, sparkling water goes down a lot easier for me than plain water, except when I’m running. Every day, I fill two bottles, fizz them up and sip the sparkling water throughout the day.
As I increased my exercise, the need to hydrate became even more important. Not only did my downfalls in drinking affect my everyday life, but I was hitting the proverbial wall far too early in my runs.
“All because of a little water?” you ask.
Yep. Our bodies are made of 60% water, and that water is responsible for carrying nutrients through our bodies and keeping our organs in good working order. But did you know that not all of your hydration need come from water? Let’s talk about that further.
But first…
The recipe:
Not only do I love the flavors of pink grapefruit and pineapple, but they both have high water contents. And with pink grapefruits in season and at their sweetest right now, there is no need to add extra sweeteners. Just pure fruit in this baby!
I squeezed the juice from two pink grapefruits and poured it into my favorite Blendtec blender with the frozen pineapple chunks (seriously, this thing can puree anything!) and grated ginger. I used a combination of the “Whole Juice” and “Smoothie” modes to achieve a really smooth consistency. No need to strain the mixture afterwards!
If you’re just making a sparkler for yourself, use half of the juice puree and store the rest in the fridge until next time. Pour the puree into a glass and add the sparkling water, along with some ice. Voilà – a refreshing, hydrating beverage! Scroll down for the full recipe.
How much water is enough?
According to the Mayo Clinic, men should consume about 13 cups (3 liters) of water per day and the recommendation for women is about 9 cups (2.2 liters) per day. However, this varies based upon several factors, including amount of exercise, environment (hot/cold, humid/dry) and general health. If your urine is light yellow, you’re hydrated. If it’s any darker, grab a glass of water!
I can’t tell you exactly how much water to drink each day because I don’t know your personal circumstances (and I’m not a dietitian), but Liz and I challenge you to increase your water intake to help you feel healthier and to improve your energy!
How can I increase my hydration?
Water:
Yes, water is the best and purest way to hydrate. Some tricks that have worked for me are drinking a glass of water before a snack or meal, taking sips of water between every 1 or 2 bites and squeezing some lemon or lime into my water.
Fruits, vegetables and juices:
The wise people at the Mayo Clinic also tell us that about 20% of our daily hydration needs can be met with food. Some fruits and vegetables contain more water than others. Here’s a handy guide to help you out. For example, grapefruit and pineapple are made up of 91% and 87% water, respectively, and tomatoes and zucchini are made up of 94% and 95% water, respectively. If you’re drinking juices, try to choose the pure stuff, such as Liz’s Carrot Orange Ginger Juice, which is not chock-a-block full of added sugar.
Milk:
Believe it or not, cow’s milk, almond milk and soy milk can count towards your water consumption. Not only can milk help with hydration, but its combination of protein and carbs can help to speed up recovery after a workout. If you’ve ever participated in a running race, you’ve probably seen chocolate milk at the finishing line. That’s because it’s great for recovery!
Coffee and tea:
I know, I know…coffee and tea are considered to be diuretics, which hinder hydration. However, if you don’t overdo it on the coffee, you can actually reap some hydration benefits from the water it contains. That being said, herbal teas are your best choices in this category.
A challenge is always so much more fun, and dare we say easier, when you have challenge buddies to keep you motivated and exchange ideas with. Liz and I are excited to share ideas with all of you in our Facebook group, and on Twitter and Instagram using the hashtag #HealthyNewYear. Be sure to tag Liz (@thelemonbowl) and me (@cookincanuck) on Instagram when you post a #HealthyNewYear photo, and feel free to share your photos, ideas and questions in the Facebook group.
And don’t forget to check out Liz’s vibrant Carrot Orange Ginger Juice for the recipe and more hydration ideas.
Let’s kick off 2015 together, and help each other to make it the healthiest and happiest year yet!
Pink Grapefruit, Pineapple & Ginger Sparkler {Hydration Challenge}
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh pink grapefruit juice about 2 grapefruits
- 10 ounces frozen pineapple chunks about 2 cups
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 8 ounces sparkling water
- ice
- lime wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a blender, puree the pink grapefruit juice, pineapple chunks and grated ginger until smooth.
- Divide the fruit puree between two tall glasses, add 4 ounces of sparkling water to each. Stir to combine and add ice. Garnish with lime wedges, if desired.
Notes
Nutrition
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Blendtec Blenders. All opinions are my own.
Aggie
I normally drink a ton of water…mostly because it’s always pretty hot here and it keeps me cool. Once winter comes along and our temps dip slightly to more comfortable weather I find that I don’t drink enough water during the day. I’ve been feeling sluggish and getting more headaches the last couple of months and my friend and I were just talking about how we think it’s our water intake during this time of year, it just takes more effort!
Your drink looks incredible!! I love grapefruit so much. My grandpa just gave me a ton from his tree. I’m intrigued by your soda stream…I love bubbly water.
Dara
Thank you, Aggie! First of all, I agree that it’s always more challenging to drink water in the winter. I need to work on that! Second, I love that your grandpa grows grapefruits…lucky you! And third, you would love a SodaStream. I fizz up two bottles each day and do my best to drink both of them by the end of the day.
Liz @ The Lemon Bowl
You had me at “ginger” and “sparkler” – I’m with you, anything with bubbles goes down faster! Love all of the vitamin-c rich fruit in this two – double whammy. So excited to kick off the #HealthyNewYear Challenge!! xo
Dara
Thank you, Liz! Here’s to a very #HealthyNewYear!
Katrina @ In Katrina's Kitchen
I love water so this is an easy one for me! But I always forget about sparkling water. Time to change things up!!
Dara
That’s great, Katrina! I adore sparkling water in any form and gulp it down every day.
Alice @ Hip Foodie Mom
Dara, I’m with you on starting the new year off right and yes!! hydration is so important!! wow, I remember when it was 8 cups of water a day for women. . 9 cups huh? no problem! thanks for the reminder and love that you and Liz are doing this!! cheers to a great and healthy new year!
Dara
I’m so glad you’re doing this challenge with us, Alice! Yes, general recommendation seems to be 9 cups, but remember to change that up according to your specific circumstances.
Jessica | Saucy Pear
When I began losing the ~60 pounds that I’ve had off for 8 years now, the first thing I did was drink tons of water. I find that a lot of times when I *think* I’m hungry, I’m actually just thirsty.
Happy {Healthy} New Year!
Dara
Wow! Good for you, Jessica! It’s so true that thirst often masks itself as hunger. If I have the munchies, I can usually keep them at bay by hydrating.
Angela Pelc
Great challenge! I absolutely LOVE my Soda Stream and keep 5 liters of cold filtered water in my fridge at all times. When I’m sitting down to dinner, I fizz it up and share it with my son who loves “fizzy wizzy”! I flavor it with cucumber slices, mint, lemon or lime…sometimes all of the above! I’m going to try your recipe this week!
Dara
I love that your son calls it “fizzy wizzy”! I hope that you enjoy the recipe.
Jenny Flake
These flavors!! Can’t wait to try!
Dara
Thanks, Jenny! I feel the same way about these flavors. 🙂
Melissa @ Treats With a Twist
This sounds like a wonderful way to get in more hydration! Some of my favorite flavors! I workout a lot and am constantly reminding myself to drink more. Good idea!
Dara
Thanks, Melissa! I’m the same way…I constantly need to remind myself and start to feel my energy drop when I’m not hydrating properly.
kelley
These flavors! Looks so refreshing and love the added vitamins from the grapefruit and pineapple! One of my favorite ways to make sure I get enough water is to chug 20z first thing in the morning. It’s honestly the first thing I do every day and it’s a great way to kick start the metabolism!!
Dara
Thanks, Kelley! That is such a great way to get things started in the morning. I usually gulp down a glass of water right before my run, but am bad about it after the run. I’m working on it, but need to take a page out of your book.
Annalise @ Completely Delicious
I’m all about the sparkling water right now. I can’t get enough! I was worried it wasn’t as beneficial as regular water, so thanks for helping me feel better about my addiction. 🙂 Definitely going to try this drink, such great flavors I wouldn’t have thought to put together!
Dara
I’m glad to hear that someone else is addicted to sparkling water as I am! I hope you have a chance to try this sparkler…I have a feeling you’d love it, Annalise.
Kristy @ Chocolate Slopes
Great tips Dara! Thanks for adding that you can’t give a “one size fits all” specific amount of water that everyone should drink on a given day. There are so many factors and different circumstances (like you mentioned above) that change the amount of water each person needs.
Dara
Thanks, Kristy! I’ve learned over the years, particularly just from how my own body reacts in different temperatures and with different exercise levels, that our bodies are all a little different when it comes to hydration. I’m glad you found the tips helpful!
Flavia
I am so glad I joined this group! I’ve needed to “reset” after the crazy 2 years I’ve had and joining this challenge is just what I needed. I love sparkling water–I find it easier to drink more water when it’s fizzy and I love adding fruit juice to it. This recipe sounds wonderful. Pink grapefruit is one of my favorite fruits. Can’t wait to try it!
Dara
And I’m so glad that you’re here, Flavia! Pink grapefruit is one of my favorites too, and it marries well with the pineapple and ginger.
Kate @ Diethood
That is one gorgeous drink! I always have a bottle of water with me or next to me, but I would much rather have this beauty!
Dara
Thank you, Kate! It’s great that you’re already doing so well with hydration. This drink is a great way to mix things up a bit.
Cassidy Stockton
I love grapefruit and I definitely don’t eat enough fruit. This looks like a really, really tasty way to hydrate! Thanks, Dara!
Dara
Thanks, Cassidy! I hope you have a chance to try it. If you love grapefruit, you should love this!
Anna @ Crunchy Creamy Sweet
I always struggle with drinking water during the cold months. I love the idea of adding bubbles! Definitely makes it go down easier. This sparkler is gorgeous and sounds delicious!
Dara
That’s so true, Anna. There’s just something about those bubbles that helps the water slide down easily.
claire @the realistic nutritionist
I am the worst at drinking healthy beverages during the day (I say as I chug down a diet coke). This is dreamy!
Dara
I hope you have a chance to try it, Claire! In my opinion, the fresh fruit flavors beat out soda any day. 🙂
Martha @ A Family Feast
I almost always have a bottle of water with me – and on those days when I don’t have it, I feel so much worse! This drink looks very refreshing!
Dara
I hear you, Martha! Dehydration does not do good things to me, either.
The Food Hunter
I love this recipe!
Dara
Thank you, Theresa!
[email protected] Science & Cupcakes
I’m excited to join in on this challenge! I find that keeping a water bottle at my desk rather than just a glass helps me drink more water because I don’t have to keep getting up to refill my glass – I already have a liter at my disposal! This recipe looks great, and I can’t wait to try it!
Dara
I’m so glad that you’re joining Liz and I in the challenge, Beth! Having water close by is a great tip to increasing hydration.
Heidi @foodiecrush
I prefer good old fashioned water with ice. All day long. I have a collection of big plastic glasses from Ikea that don’t sweat (and ruin my tables) that I sip from all day. It cuts down on my diet coke intake too.
Dara
That’s awesome, Heidi! I like my water really cold, too. I’ll have to check out those Ikea glasses.
Stephanie @ Back for Seconds
I drink a lot of water but probably not enough when it below zero outside like it is now! All I want is coffee and tea! This sparkler is so gorgeous and sounds delicious!
Ashley @ Wishes & Dishes
I love drinks with fresh ginger in them lately!! Great recipe!
Sylvie | Gourmande in the Kitchen
That sounds super refreshing, and I always love a little fizz in my drinks!
Christina @ The Beautiful Balance
I carry a 1 liter Camelbak Eddy water bottle with me EVERYWHERE. Seriously, everywhere I go it is there. I have a minor panic attack if it’s not or if I forget it somewhere and immediately feel like I’m dying of thirst. I drink an insane amount of water throughout the day and know that when I’m fully hydrated I feel the best. Because of the insane amount of water I rarely drink anything else. If I do it is always tea, a smoothie, or fresh juice. I’m counting this as fresh juice and making it asap! The flavors sound so refreshing together.
Lauren @ Healthy Delicious
I’m so terrible about staying hydrated. I never drink enough and it’s especially bad this time of year when all I want is coffee or tea. I’ve been trying to make more of an effort to get more liquids in. I love the look of this refresher – anything with grapefruit and pineapple is a definite win in my book.
Karen Lynch
My husband must have had a inkling we needed these this week. He came home from the store Sunday with 8 grapefruit and a pineapple. Can’t wait go try and I have a soda stream.
Corry Oosterhouse
I love that you and Liz give the Weight Watchers points for your recipes! It saves time figuring them out on my points calculator!!
[email protected] Mom
This sounds very refreshing!
Heather @FrenchPress
water is my downfall , I never remember to drink during the day, but I will be enjoying this sparkler tomorrow!!
Lori @ RecipeGirl
What a great refreshing drink. I know I would love sipping on this!
Erin @ Texanerin Baking
Look at all that beautiful pineapple in the blender! Yum. I’ve never tried grapefruit juice so maybe if I find them on sale, I’ll pick up a few and try this out. It sounds amazing!
Plus I like this challenge. So easy. I like easy. 😀
Kim (Feed Me, Seymour)
Hydration is the one thing I always forget. I’m trying to remember now that if I’m “hungry”, I could be either bored or thirsty. The first thing I should do is drink something! Definitely something like this. It looks amazing!
Rose | The Clean Dish
Yep, I’m the same way. I simply forget to drink and sparkling water goes down a lot easier for me, too! I hydrate big time when I run, just not when I’m at home. This recipe looks fantastic – thanks for the inspiration!
Lori @ Foxes Love Lemons
Oh, there are so many flavors in here I love! I actually have 2 pregnant friends staying with me this weekend, and this might be the perfect thing to make them. A way for them to have a special (non-alcoholic) something to sip on!
Heather | girlichef
This sounds SO incredibly refreshing, and what a perfect flavor combo.
Alida
What a refreshingly delicious sparkler…I can’t wait to try it!
Sarah @ SnixyKitchen
This post is perfect for me because dehydration is definitely something I’m guilty of too! AND I love grapefruit, ginger, and sparkling water. Thanks for all of the tips on how to stay hydrated to maintain my energy!
Jersey Girl Cooks
I never drink enough water so this is perfect for me. Happy new year!
Rachel @ Baked by Rachel
I’d love to try this! Perfect refreshing drink 🙂
Faith (An Edible Mosaic)
Thanks for sharing all this great info! I’m the same way when I don’t get enough water – the first symptom I get is a big headache. This sparkler is beautiful and the perfect way to stay hydrated!
Nutmeg Nanny
I have days where I could drink enough water to float away and then other days where I barely drink anything. It’s so important to get your water intake up and stay constant with the intake. This little drink sounds amazing and I love the addition of ginger..yum!
Krista @ doorstepdishes
Fascinating info on hydration! This looks incredible – and would probably make a great cocktail too (though you’d have to get hydrated again after that…).