Tag Archives: recipes

Green Tea Thirst Quencher

Well, before you know it, summer will be here – tropical heat where even the shade doesn’t offer much relief. Be sure to “stay hydrated” (or, as they used to say, just drink plenty of fluids). Gatorade and related sports drinks are great for replacing lost electrolytes, etc., but that’s not always necessary.

 

Make Your Own Sports Drink

For me, they actually sometimes upset my stomach, which is NOT  good. If water alone is not particularly your thing, then maybe you should consider my husband’s solution for a tasty, thirst quenching sports drink that’s also economical to make.

There are many reasons for drinking green tea, including this list of 20 ways a beverage based on green tea helps your body.

Drinking Green Tea Is A Good Thing

This process is the same as making “sun tea,” which doesn’t really need the sun in order to make, just the hot tap water. Proportions are approximate and can be altered to taste – make it your own and customize. (Fresh mint is always a good option.)

2-1/2 quarts (80 oz.) hot water (from the faucet is OK).
2 large Luzianne brand family size green tea bags specially blended for iced tea.
(Just think of all of those lovely antioxidants!)
1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
Allow the tea to steep on the countertop for 2 or more hours.
Remove the tea bags and give it a stir to dissolve any remaining sugar at the bottom.
Now it’s ready for the refrigerator, to use as needed.

When you’re ready, pour some into your glass or sports bottle and add any of the following for additional nutrients and flavor. (For our taste, proportions are usually 3 parts tea plus 1 part juice, but go ahead and customize to make it your own.)

  • A) Motts natural fresh pressed 100% apple juice – no sugar added
  • B) Northland 100% cranberry juice – no sugar added
  • C) Florida’s Natural 100% pure Florida orange juice

Experiment and see what you like – just remember to read the label and watch for additives and things like added sweeteners that are not particularly desirable when you’re talking about a healthy, refreshing drink.