Posts by chuck_phx

Some more comments about things people have mentioned here.  The water itself doesn't have magical properties.  People have always enjoyed flavored beverages, so there's no surprise about the sassy water.  The water has psychological benefits as stated above (creating new healthy habits), and some mild nutrition and good flavor without sugar, alcohol or caffeine.  And people aren't looking for magic, but for solid reasonable advice about how to eat and care for themselves.  Media/advertising messages that try to sell you food create confusion about what is truly healthy and reasonable. 

There is no need to muddle or crush the ingredients.  Just let them steep a few hours.  Be sure your mint and cukes are clean.  I recommend washing unpeeled cukes with a sponge and soap, then rinsing well.  If you buy a mint plant and plant it outside or in a pot, you'll not need to buy it constantly.  Mint grows like a weed and needs very little care.  Just some sun and water. 

About the smoothie:  You can make them with nonfat yogurt or lowfat soy milk if you are lactose intolerant.  I recommend taking the flax oil by the spoonful with a meal if you don't like to mix it in your food.  Be sure your flax oil is fresh.  It should smell vaguely grassy.  If it smells like linseed oil or paint, it is spoiled and you should not consume it.  If it gives you gas, try taking it in smaller amounts 2 or 3 times a day with meals (3 tsp = 1 Tbsp).