Curtsy-lunge for the queen of fitness. Mapule Ndhlovu reigns over SA’s gym scene with her high-energy workouts, she’s got charisma that can’t be beaten and she’s inspo on all levels – body, mind and spirit. So, what are the healthy drinks she swears by for optimum performance? Here, teetotalling Maps shares her alcohol-free, super-power drinks of choice…
1. For energy
The drink: Espresso
Benefit: If you want to squeeze in a morning workout, this caffeine shot is what you need to get your body into gear.
READ MORE: "I drank kombucha every day for 10 days – here’s what happened"
2. For wellness
The drink: Hot water + cayenne + ginger + lemon + honey
Benefit: Honey has anti-bacterial and antifungal properties; the other ingredients in the mix support your immune system. The capsaicin in the cayenne also helps reduce inflammation and pain.
READ MORE: These are officially the 3 best teas for weight loss
3. For holistic health
The drink: Wheatgrass
Benefit: This is Maps’ go-to source for a boost of extra vitamins and minerals. Wheatgrass has anti-inflammatory properties and provides a concentrated dose of nutrients, like vitamins C and E. Vitamin E helps with PMS symptoms, fights free radicals and repairs damaged skin and hair.
READ MORE: The 5 best alcohols to drink if you're trying to lose weight and stay healthy
4. For wellbeing
The drink: Hot water + lemon + cinnamon + ginger + mint
Benefit: Kick your health up a notch with this slow sip. Hot water, lemon and mint aid digestion; the cinnamon lowers blood pressure and boosts heart health.
READ MORE: 4 teas you didn’t know had such amazing body benefits
5. For life
The drink: Water
Benefit: The benefits are plenty – it flushes your system, keeps you hydrated and promotes weight loss. Maps drinks two or more litres a day.
This article was first published on Women's Health SA.