Living in the desert means dealing with high heat in the spring and summer seasons. It is crucial to stay hydrated, especially when working in fields or orchards during the hottest parts of the day. Before the days of sugary electrolyte drinks, they had Switchel!
The origins of this drink are a little challenging to locate. Some believe that it began in Amish communities. Others think that it originated in the West Indies colonies. Hippocrates created a similar drink, so perhaps he deserves the credit!
Nonetheless, Switchel (also known as Haymaker's Punch) has been used throughout history as an electrolyte drink. They needed to stay hydrated and healthy, and this drink is excellent at achieving those goals. Switchel is high in potassium, has anti-inflammatory properties, helps regulate blood sugar, and benefits the digestive system. In my opinion, it is not as fun to drink as the sugary electrolyte drinks they have at the grocery store, but it is a significantly healthier option.
How to Make Switchel
Ingredients:
2 Cups of Water
1/4 Cup of Apple Cider Vinegar
1/4 Molasses OR Raw Honey
Juice of Half a Lemon
1/2 tsp Fresh Ginger, Grated OR 1 tsp Ground Ginger
Step 1: Add water to a pitcher. Set aside.
Step 2: In a large measuring cup, whisk together apple cider vinegar, molasses, and lemon juice until fully combined. Add fresh ginger. Stir well.
Step 3: Add the apple cider vinegar mixture to the pitcher of water. Stir well.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Switchel is delicious when warmed up on a rainy evening or iced on a hot summer afternoon. I like to make a double batch and keep it in the refrigerator, as it will attract flies and other flying insects that I do not want to drink (it seems as though I catch more flies with vinegar and molasses than I do with honey!).
Vitamins, minerals, and electrolytes do not have to include a bunch of sugar and calories. With this healthy and yummy drink, you can have an easier time handling the summer heat and feel good about the resource helping you through it!
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