What has lately become a trend, was quite popular long ago too. It is the switchel.
This beverage originates from the Caribbean and was a famous refreshment in New England, and a lot of other English colonies. Everybody drank it regardless of their economic or social status. Its fame is because of the fact that is very good for staying hydrated during hot days.
Switchel is made from a few ingredients, which makes it quite easy to prepare. Since ice water was believed to cause indigestion on hot days, and was hard to obtain, switchel made the right alternative. Adding ginger to it, prevented bloating and made it even better!
Although the combo of the ingredients might seem a bit odd, this beverage balances the tartness from the apple cider vinegar, the spiciness of the ginger and the sweetness of the maple syrup quite well.
What Are the Benefits From Switchel Consumption?
Even though this drink was popular in the past, people might not have known the benefits it offers on health. Today, with the technological development, we are able to analyze almost everything. As a result, the following benefits were discovered:
It Helps Ease Pain & Inflammation
If you exercise, make sure you have this tonic (we provide you with the recipe!), because it is just the right thing to consume after the workout. Ginger decreases pro-inflammatory enzymes and helps with pain and other kinds of inflammation among which eczema, aging, arthritis, acne and with depression as well. The best part is that one of the main compounds of ginger is gingerol which is amazing pain-killer, dealing with ache and pain even better than conventional medicine, since there is no side effects.
Electrolytes Restoration
We have electrolytes in our body. These are of crucial importance to the functioning of our organism since they are the transmitters of electrical charge, which is responsible for a high number of body processes.
However, some of these electrolytes are lost whenever we exercise, we go the toilet, we sweat, etc.
When we are dehydrated we need to consume foods high in electrolytes, or when we have a stomach virus, or a flu. The consequences of lack of electrolytes are many and dangerous. Since one of the ingredients in switchel is apple cider vinegar which is a good source of potassium (minerals like calcium, potassium and magnesium are electrically charged), this beverage would be a good thing to consume.
Maple syrup is rich not only with potassium, but also magnesium, chloride, calcium and sodium. Keeping this in mind, switchel makes a good, healthy alternative to sports drinks.
Enjoy the Healthful Effects of Ginger
Improving blood circulation, blood sugar, cholesterol and digestion are just a few of the ginger miraculous properties. Gingerol is antioxidant so this can and will improve concentration, memory and reaction time.
Get Your Daily Dose of Apple Cider Vinegar
You can even consume this on a daily basis. It helps with pH balance, balance of blood sugar, keeping the heart in shape, weight loss, and even good digestion.
Understandably this would not be the tastiest food you ever tried, but there is good alternative option – switchel!
The Hidden Wonders of Pure Maple Syrup
It is not necessary to mention that maple syrup is countless times better than processed sugar. Zing, manganese, calcium and potassium are highly concentrated in maple syrup. This natural sweetener is full with antioxidants too.
How To Make Traditional Switchel:
Instead of buying it from a store, it might be better to make your own switchel. You will only need:
- Six ounces of ginger root (make sure it is fresh)
- Half a cup of apple cider vinegar
- 3tbsp of pure maple syrup
- Four cups of water (you can also use club soda if you like it sparkling)
Grate the ginger and combine it with the other ingredients. Stir it, until the mixture is equal (you will notice the maple syrup dissolving). You will see that the ginger bits will sink. If you like to try it immediately, just pour it in a glass, add ice and there you have it! Your very own, homemade switchel!
You can also keep it in the fridge for a day, and before you serve it make sure you stir it or shake it well.
To make it even better you can add mint and squeezed lemon by preference!
