It may be cool outside, but drinking water is just as important during winter months as it is during the summer. Our bodies are made up of 70% water and hydration is critical year-round to maintain healthy bodily function. The air is drier during colder weather and we do not receive as much moisture. Indoor heating is also drying, which leads to cracked lips, dry skin, and other health impairments. Our body uses more fluids to exhale when we breathe in cold weather. We do not tend to feel as thirsty during winter months as we do in summer months, which makes us more susceptible to dehydration.

When choosing winter beverages, it is important to reach for those that are hydrating, nothing can replace water alone, but there are delicious drink options that you can create at home with the water that comes from the faucet or your refrigerator. On cold winter days, these tap water drinks will keep you warm and hydrated. Southern California tap water is highly regulated and safe to consume. Tap water drinks are delicious all year long!

Honey and Lemon Water
With winter seasonal threats in the air, honey and lemon are the perfect combination to soothe sore throats and ease congestion. Note: Honey should not be given to children under the age of 1.

Ingredients:
-Fresh cold tap water
-1 tablespoon of lemon juice
-2 tablespoons of honey

Directions:
1. Pour tap water into tea kettle and bring to a boil.
2. Put honey and lemon juice in a teacup or mug.
3. Add hot water to cup and stir gently.
4. Add lemon juice or honey to taste.
5. Enjoy!

Classic Hot Cocoa
With a simple list of ingredients, hot cocoa is the perfect beverage the whole family can enjoy on a cool winter day.

Ingredients:
-1/3 cup of sugar
-¼ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder
-1/3 cup of hot tap water
-Dash of salt
-4 cups of milk
-3/4 tsp vanilla extract
-Choice of garnish (optional): mini marshmallows, whipped cream, sprinkles, peppermint sticks

Directions:
1. In a medium saucepan combine the sugar, cocoa powder, salt, and tap water. Bring to a rolling boil.
2. Stir and cook for two minutes.
3. Reduce heat and stir in the milk to desired temperature. Do not boil.
4. Remove from heat.
5. Stir in vanilla.
6. Add desired garnish. (optional)
7. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Hot Tea
With an endless possibility of flavors and styles, it is no surprise that tea is enjoyed around the world. Whether as a morning warm-up or a relaxing cup before bed, there is something for everyone.

Ingredients:
-Caffeine-free tea bag
-Fresh cold tap water
-Choice of sweetener (optional): honey, sugar, stevia

Directions:
1. Choose a desired flavor of tea bag.
2. Fill tea pot with cold, fresh tap water. Bring to a boil.
3. After it reaches boiling, turn off heat and let sit for a few minutes.
4. Put tea bag in mug or cup and fill.
5. Steep tea bag in water for amount of time shown on package. Each tea variety requires different steep times.
6. Remove tea bag.
7. Add honey or sugar to taste. (optional)
8. Enjoy!

French Press Coffee
The French Press was invented in 1929 and has been used to make a full-bodied cup of coffee ever since.

-Fresh, cold tap water
-Medium ground decaffeinated coffee

Directions:
1. Pour tap water into tea kettle and bring to a boil. Once boiled turn off heat and let sit for 1 minute.
2. Remove plunger from press.
3. Add a tablespoon of coffee to the pot per 6.7 ounces of water.
4. Fill press halfway with hot water, making sure that all grounds are saturated.
5. Stir gently and wait 1 minute.
6. Carefully insert the plunger and let it stand for 3 minutes without plunging.
7. Press plunger down slowly using steady pressure.
8. Serve coffee immediately. Pour coffee not immediately used into a carafe.