Cynthia Sass, the nutritionist that actually “invented” this drink, called “Sassy” in her honor, says that this magical water has an amazing effect on the digestive system and significantly relieves bloating. Long used as a part of Traditional Chinese Medicine, ginger has been shown to help reduce the symptoms of IBS (1). Cucumbers are anecdotally used to help reduce water retention (for the same reason people apply cucumber slices to help reduce puffiness under the eyes), and lemon juice is commonly used as a natural remedy to calm the digestive system. Researchers have found that peppermint (in its whole form or as an oil extract) can help to reduce the symptoms of IBS including bloating (2).
Recipe for Sassy Water
Ingredients:
- 8 glasses of water
- 1 tsp grated ginger root
- 1 medium-sized cucumber, peeled and cut into slices
- 1 medium-sized lemon cut into slices
- 12 fresh mint leaves and 1 tsp dried mint
Preparation and Consumption:
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl, leave them overnight, and it is best if you keep the bowl in the fridge. Consume 4-5 glasses during the whole day.
You can start drinking it in the morning before your breakfast for better results. You will feel like you have lost 1 pound after the first two hours.
This “Sassy” water is not recommended for pregnant women and nursing mothers, nor for people having stomach problems or allergy to any of the ingredients listed!
