Chia Seeds to Sabja Seeds: Infused Water for Better Hydration and Health – News18

Last Updated:December 03, 2024, 12:32 IST

With flavours and nutrients that go beyond regular water, infused water can be your go-to for staying hydrated while enjoying the added wellness benefits every sip provides.

On a busy day filled with commitments and deadlines, it is easy to forget to hydrate properly. However, staying hydrated doesn’t have to be a chore. Adding natural ingredients, especially nutrient-rich seeds, transforms hydration into a nourishing, enjoyable ritual that brings added benefits like digestive support, immunity boosts, and appetite control. Infusing water with seeds not only enriches its taste but also makes it a simple way to incorporate extra nutrition into your day.

Here are five popular seeds recommended by Marisha Baurai, Food & Innovation Technologies, Farmley that can be infused in water to keep you hydrated and healthy. Here is a guide to the top five seed infusions, each offering an effortless way to elevate your daily hydration routine!

1. Chia Seeds: Nature’s Hydration PowerhouseChia seeds, for instance, are well-known as hydration powerhouses. When added to water, these tiny seeds absorb up to twelve times their weight in liquid, creating a gel-like texture that allows your body to release and absorb water gradually. This makes chia water ideal for times when you need longer-lasting hydration, such as during workouts or hot days. Alongside their hydrating effects, chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and fibre, offering a nutritious boost with every sip. To prepare, simply mix a tablespoon of chia seeds in a glass of water, stir and let it sit for 15–20 minutes. This mild, slightly nutty drink will keep you refreshed throughout the day.
2. Sabja Seeds: Cooling and FillingBasil seeds, or Sabja seeds, are widely used in tropical regions for their cooling properties. Sabja seeds help in regulating body temperature which also makes them ideal for warm climates. Their high fibre content can help you feel full for a longer time, reducing midday hunger pangs. When soaked in water, sabja seeds develop a gelatinous texture that feels instantly hydrating. To make sabja-infused water, these seeds take on an almost gel-like appearance which feels refreshing in the mouth. To prepare sabja water, take a teaspoon of sabja seeds and soak it in water for 5-10 minutes. As the seeds expand, they give a nice chewiness to the beverage, which can also be combined with lemon or other juices for more flavours.
3. Cucumber and Mint: Detoxifying and RefreshingCucumber and mint are a classic infusion that’s both refreshing and detoxifying. Cucumber helps to hydrate while adding very mild flavours. At the same time, mint balances that out with some sweetness along with a cooling sensation, making it an ideal drink for the summer heat. Together, cucumber and mint create a drink that is detoxifying and light. Cucumber helps to eliminate waste while mint aids in digestion and alleviates gas, which makes this beverage suitable for consumption following a meal or a session at the gym. To get the most benefits, cut a cucumber and put it with mint in a glass pitcher, fill it with water and keep it in the refrigerator for a few hours.
4. Lemon and Ginger: Immunity and Energy BoostLemon and ginger water gives a natural boost to your immune system. This mix packs a punch of vitamin C and antioxidants from lemon, along with ginger’s ability to fight inflammation and help your gut. The tangy taste and health perks make lemon and ginger water great to kick off your morning or in the afternoon. You can simply squeeze half a lemon into a glass of water and add some ginger slices. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes. You can enjoy it hot or cold, depending on your preference and time of day.
5. Fenugreek Seeds: Digestive AidFenugreek seeds are known for their digestive benefits. When you soak them in water, they release a substance like gel that coats your stomach, which can ease acidity. People also link fenugreek to a better metabolism and can aid in regulating blood sugar levels. To make fenugreek-infused water, soak a teaspoon of seeds in water through the night. Strain out the seeds in the morning and drink the mild bitter liquid on an empty stomach to get its digestive benefits.

With flavours and nutrients that go beyond regular water, infused water can be your go-to for staying hydrated while enjoying the added wellness benefits every sip provides. Whether you are aiming for detox, extra hydration, or digestive support, these natural infusions can turn your daily hydration into an enjoyable health habit.