Back when my twins were babies, I was diagnosed with supraventricular tachycardia and inappropriate sinus tachycardia. There are many factors that exacerbate these conditions and trigger episodes for me, like a hormonal imbalance, high impact exercise, chemicals in foods like MSG, and caffeine. It stinks that things I do every day for survival like eating and drinking can cause a flare in my condition. Well, is not the actual act of eating and drinking but some of the “fake” foods and drinks that are marketed as food. So for years, my main beverage has been pure, simple, clear water. I do drink decaf coffee or herbal tea a few times a week. When I go out to eat, I don’t have a choice but to drink water. I don’t drink regular soft drinks because of the chemicals and sugar. I don’t drink diet soft drinks because of the chemicals, particularly the artificial sweeteners. Whether or not they are caffeine free really doesn’t matter after I consider the chemicals they contain.
I do have to be honest and admit that I like Fresca. I LOVE citrus flavors! Sonic has delicious fruit slushes and I used to indulge in those quite a bit during the half price hours. However, I haven’t had Fresca or Sonic drinks in a long time because of my commitment to becoming healthier.
I really enjoy all of the beverage recipes for Trim Healthy Mama. I drink these when I get tired of drinking water. Yesterday, I decided to try making my own strawberry lemonade slush, and it was delicious.
Strawberry Lemonade Slush Trim Healthy Mama
1.5 cups frozen strawberries
1/3 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
3 cups water
3 doonks Stevia(a doonk is the tiny scoop that comes with Now Stevia or THM Stevia–it measures 1/32 tsp)
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 cup ice cubes
Puree frozen strawberries in your blender. (For Trim Healthy Mama recipes, I would recommend a Vitamix or Ninja Kitchen System. I have a Ninja and it has been a lifesaver for mixing smoothies, drinks, making ice cream, and many of the food recipes.) Add lemon juice, water, and apple cider vinegar. Add ice and chop until desired slushy consistency is achieved. If you don’t like slushes, you could simply pour your drink over a few ice cubes.
After school and chores, the children and I went outside to read, play, and just enjoy the gorgeous weather here in SC. The strawberry lemonade was a lovely addition to my relaxing afternoon in the sun.
