What is Gel Water?

Quench by Dr. Dana Cohen and Gina Bria is a transformative book that redefines how we think about hydration and health. The authors argue that traditional advice to drink eight glasses of water a day is outdated and that proper hydration involves more than just consuming water—it requires a combination of water, electrolytes, and movement to help the body absorb and use fluids effectively. And this comes in the form of gel water!

Key Concepts:

1. Hydration Through Food: Emphasizes the importance of consuming water-rich foods like fruits and vegetables, which are a more efficient source of hydration due to their natural electrolytes and nutrients.
2. Gel Water (Structured Water): Introduces the idea of “gel water,” a more hydrating form of water found in plant-based foods and created inside the body through specific practices.
3. Movement for Hydration: Highlights how light, consistent movement (like stretching or fascia work) helps transport water throughout the body and improves cellular hydration.
4. Morning Hydration Routine: Encourages starting the day with a glass of water with a pinch of sea salt and lemon for better hydration and electrolyte balance.
5. Modern Hydration Challenges: Discusses how chronic dehydration can manifest as fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and other common health issues, especially in the context of modern lifestyles and diets.

Here’s a quick and practical guide to the drinks recommended in Quench by Dr. Dana Cohen and Gina Bria. These recipes help optimize hydration by combining water, nutrients, and electrolytes for better absorption into your cells. This is for my quick reference and I hope they will help you too!

Morning Hydration Routine

• What to Drink When You Wake Up:
  • 8–16 oz of room-temperature water
  • Juice from a lemon wedge
  • Optional: 1 tsp apple cider vinegar, crushed fresh mint, rosemary, or a chamomile tea bag
  • These additions boost water absorption and improve cellular hydration.

Winter Morning Smoothie: Sweet Nut Milk

A creamy, nourishing drink to start chilly mornings right.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon ground chia seeds (pre-ground or soaked whole for several minutes)
• ½ cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons ground cashews or other nuts/seeds
• 1–2 tsp maple syrup (to taste)
• 1 teaspoon fresh diced ginger (freeze diced ginger for easy use)
• ¼ tsp cardamom or cinnamon
• 1–2 pinches real salt (like Redmond, Himalayan, or Celtic salt)
• 1 cup filtered or spring water (or more for desired consistency)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into a thermos or cup. If desired, warm the water before blending (check blender instructions for hot liquids).

Optional Additions: Ground flax, magnesium bisglycinate, or herbal infusion instead of water. Customize to suit your needs!

Summer Morning Smoothie: Lime-Aid

A refreshing, hydrating smoothie for hot days.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup coconut water or coconut milk
• ½ cucumber (peeled if not organic)
• 1 tablespoon ground chia seeds
• 1–2 teaspoons honey
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1–2 pinches real salt
• 1–2 cups filtered water
• ½–1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger

Optional Additions for Variety:

• ½ cup raspberries, ½ pear, 2 tablespoons alfalfa sprouts, or a splash of fruit juice.

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a blender and blend on high.
2. Enjoy a hydrating, flavorful smoothie!

Hydrating Coffee Hack

Transform your morning coffee into a hydrating drink:

• Blend 1 teaspoon grass-fed butter or coconut oil into your coffee or tea.
• The healthy fats help move hydration into your cells and can ease caffeine jitters.

Afternoon Hydration Boost

Re-energize with this simple chia water:

• 14 oz filtered water
• A pinch of real salt
• 2 tablespoons ground chia seeds (shake vigorously)
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened fruit juice

Bedtime Soother

End your day with a calming, hydrating drink:

• 4 oz chamomile or licorice tea

These easy, nutrient-packed drinks will keep you hydrated and energized throughout the day, no matter the season. Want to tweak the recipes or add your own spin? Get creative and make them your own!

Hydrating Strawberry Smoothie for Kids

Kids love smoothies, and this recipe is a great way to keep them hydrated while sneaking in some extra nutrients! You can customize it with their favorite fruits and make it even more nourishing with a few simple add-ins.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup strawberries (use frozen for a slushy texture)
• ½ cup cranberry juice (or their favorite juice)
• ½ tablespoon ground chia seeds
• Splash of lime or lemon juice
• A pinch of real salt
• Sweetener to taste: maple syrup, honey, or stevia

Optional Nutrient Boosters:

• 1 teaspoon–1 tablespoon high-quality olive oil (great for nourishing benefits)
• A pinch of spinach powder
• Inulin (a prebiotic)
• Ground flax seed

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients to a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour into a cup and serve!

This smoothie is not only delicious but also packed with hydrating and nourishing ingredients to keep your kids energized and happy. Plus, it’s an easy way to include extra vitamins and fiber in their diet. Enjoy!

Want extra support with hydration? Check out my blog about cell salt minerals!