Inflammation is usually the root cause of disease and chronic pain.

During the summer months when its hot out we often reach for a cold drink.

Many times we choose an iced tea or coffee, pop, fruit drink or a popsicle. These are often loaded with excess sugar and artificial flavours.

Did you know that an Iced Mocha Capp from Tim Hortons contains 38 grams of sugar, which is equal to almost 10 teaspoons of sugar?

Why should we care how much sugar is in our summer drink?

Sugar causes weight gain and cravings- the more you eat, the more you want.

Sugar causes inflammation- Sugar is the #1 food that causes inflammation in the body.

For years I have been drinking hot ginger tea. It is my go to drink when I have a migraine or feel a little off. This summer I was looking for something cold to drink on a hot day. I don’t buy fruit juice or pop and usually only drink filtered water, but I had made ginger tea in the morning and the rest of the pot was on the counter. I poured myself a glass of ginger tea, added ice cubes and a slice of lemon and wow, what refreshing drink! Since ginger has anti inflammatory properties I knew I had come up with my new summer drink.

What is your drink of choice on a hot summer day?

Mine is homemade ginger iced tea.

Ginger Iced Tea is simple to make – make a big pot and store it in glass jars in the fridge.

What you’ll need to make Ginger Iced Tea

8 cups filtered water

2 inches fresh ginger

Put water in a large pot. Peel ginger and slice into 6 pieces. Add ginger to water and bring to a boil for about 6 minutes, or until the water starts to turn colour. Turn off heat and let sit for a few minutes to steep. Pour into glass jars and refrigerate. Add sliced lemon or a sprig of mint and enjoy on a hot day. If you are used to drinking sweet drinks try adding a little honey to the boiling water.