Spring weather can inspire us to get outside and be active. Whether that means planting (or weeding) a garden, pick-up basketball games, mowing the lawn or training for a triathalon, staying hydrated is important. Sports drinks are easy to grab, but often loaded with sugar as well as artificial flavors and colors. While being active is being kind to your body, gulping down sports drinks is not. May we suggest a refreshing beverage that is naturally loaded with antioxidants and nutritious minerals instead?
The Healthy Breakdown
Rooibos, or Red Bush, is a plant from the legume family, which is cousin to peas and beans. Sounds healthy already, but if you’re not keen on eating peas or beans, keep reading. We’ve got some tasty suggestions to come. Rooibos contains lots of antioxidants (like aspalathin and nothofagin) and phenolic compounds (such as flavanols, flavones, flavanones and dihydrochalcones). It is known to aid in easing stomach cramps, headaches, allergies, infant colic, and help reduce eczema. Read more here.
Unlike sports drinks, this plant is also naturally rich in minerals. Iron helps transport oxygen throughout the body, which is essential when you’re active. Potassium triggers the heart and helps muscles to move. Magnesium helps regulate body temperature. Zinc helps to boost your immune system while manganese helps process cholesterol, carbohydrates and protein. Rooibos also contains calcium to replace bone density you lose while you are out gardening or running. Read more about what these minerals do for you.
Some Delicious Suggestions
If all of the health benefits haven’t convinced you to try it the next time you need a cool drink, maybe some of these flavors will. Rooibos is prepared and consumed much like black tea. Milk, sugar, honey and/or lemon go well with the brewed herb. It also takes other blends of fruits, nuts, and even chocolate and caramel. Vanilla Bean, Strawberry Fields, Lemon Chiffon, Chocolate Mint and Tiramisu are a few of our blends to get you started. Browse through our full selection of rooibos blends.
While the weather is nice, get out. Be active, and then put your feet up and relax with a cool rooibos brew. This is what summer is all about.