Infused Water, Iced Tea or Soda? What Really Hydrates?

🧃 When Thirst Hits, Not Everything Liquid Counts!

It’s hot. Your body craves something cool. In your hand: a glass of iced tea with lemon, mint-infused water, or that soda winking at you from the fridge. But after all... what actually hydrates?

Before following your intuition (or your sweet tooth), let’s clarify what really counts when it comes to hydrating the body, without falling for myths — and keeping things light on the palate.

💦 Hydration Isn’t Just About Drinking “Anything”

Hydration means giving your body the water it needs to regulate temperature, transport nutrients, eliminate toxins, and avoid that cranky feeling that comes from drying out inside.

But beware: not all drinks hydrate you equally. Some can even do the opposite.

🥒 Infused Water: Beautiful, Fresh, and Hydration-Friendly

It’s basically water (the real star of the show) with the natural flavor of fruits, herbs, or spices. No sugar, no sweeteners. You can make it at home with:

• Cucumber slices + mint

• Lemon + ginger

• Strawberries + basil

✅ Does it hydrate? Yes! It’s a flavorful and natural way to drink more water.

🍵 Iced Tea: Depends on the Type (and the Sugar)

When natural and unsweetened, teas have antioxidant properties, are refreshing, and count toward hydration. But...

❌ If loaded with sugar or artificial sweeteners, they stop being your friend. Many bottled iced teas contain as much sugar as sodas.

✅ Does it hydrate? Yes, if it’s natural and unsweetened.

🥤 Soda: Refreshing, But Not as Hydrating as It Seems

Soda gives that instant feeling of freshness and pleasure (thanks to the bubbles and sugar), but the reality is less sweet:

• It contains a lot of sugar and sodium, which can actually promote dehydration;

• It can irritate your stomach and affect kidney health;

• The caffeine (in colas) has a mild diuretic effect.

❌ Does it hydrate? Not really. It may even contribute to dehydration.

🧊 And What About Natural Juices?

They’re better than sodas, of course. But be careful with concentrated fructose. A glass of orange juice can contain the sugar of 4 or 5 oranges.

✅ Does it hydrate? Yes, in moderation.

💡 Top Tips to Keep Hydration Fun and Healthy

1. Carry a bottle with you: yes, the one with motivational phrases and time markers.

2. Create rituals: one glass of water before each meal.

3. Mix up the flavors: use fruits and herbs for natural taste.

4. Choose foods rich in water: watermelon, cucumber, tomato, soup.

5. Avoid “deceptive” drinks: those high in sugar, caffeine, or gas.

✅ Conclusion: When You’re Thirsty, Keep It Simple (and Stylish)

At the end of the day, water is the queen of hydration. Infused water and natural iced teas are her modern, functional cousins. Sodas? They belong in the “social drinks in moderation” category — like that fun friend who shows up only once in a while.

👉 If you want to take care of your health without overcomplicating things, start by giving your body what it truly needs: water. With or without lemon — but always with intention.