Hydrate healthfully on this 4th of July
BY KAVITA DASWANI >>> What’s on the grill at your Fourth of July shindig is critical — but don’t neglect the contents of the ice chest. ¶ As more people veer away from high-calorie sodas and diet drinks with artificial sugars, new beverage brands are filing the void by turning out festive, healthful drinks. Here are some suggestions for non-alcoholic libations that will elevate the tone of your party.
WTRMLN WTR
Nothing says July 4 like wedges of watermelon. Now, Wtrmln Wtr, the popular cold-pressed juice, is combined with blood orange, tart cherry, or cayenne and cucumber for a cooling ready-to-go summer drink. Info: $3.99 at select Whole Foods, Costco, Wal-Mart and Target. wtrmlnwtr.com
KOMBUCHA
Tangy kombucha is the current must-have at any hip Los Angeles celebration. Local brand Health-Ade recently launched its newest flavor — a jalapeño, kiwi and cucumber concoction with smoky, spicy notes. Info: $3.99 at Whole Foods, Gelson’s and Vallarta starting July 1. health-ade.com
BALI JUICE
Solana Beach-based company Bali Juice brings the exotic sweetness of the Southeast Asian mangosteen to the U.S. (The fruit is rich in potassium.) Three varieties: pure mangosteen, pomegranate and green tea. No added sugars. Info: $3.99 at Albertsons, Vons and Pavilions. sipbali.com
ICELANDIC GLACIAL
Sparkling, flavored waters are a hot summer trend, and brand new from Icelandic Glacial are sparkling waters in modern flavors such as Elderflower, Sicilian Lemon and Tahitian Lime. The water used comes from Olfus Spring in Iceland. Info: $37.50 for a case, icelandicglacial.com