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Choosing to infuse at the Bartlett Library

On Tuesday, May 10, 20 patrons were taught the benefits of infusing water with various ingredients like fruit, vegetables and more. Kasia Andrzejuk has been going to the Bartlett Library for years to put on her programs, and this time she presented "Choose to Infuse."

The program started out with Andrzejuk asking the crowd what came to their minds when they heard the term 'infuse.'

Many patrons answered with suggestions such as adding lemon to water, creating flavored water, etc. All of the given answers focused around the flavor of infusing, but Andrzejuk explained that there are many health benefits as well.

She pointed out that since our bodies are 70% water, it is important to keep nourishing the body by drinking a lot of water. And by enhancing that water by infusing it with different ingredients, your body will get an extra boost of nutrients.

Some additional benefits to infusing are it adds flavor to the drink without packing on so many calories as sodas or juice does, it boosts metabolism if cayenne pepper is added, gives a lasting taste, burns fat and calories and also helps maintain weight.

There were different infusing pitchers at the program filled with recipes for those in attendance to try out. Patrons tasted three different infusing recipes: Cucumber and Lemon Spa Spectacular, Strawberry Sensation and Apple Awakening.

While the recipe tasting took place, Andrzejuk raffled off around ten prizes to some lucky patrons. These prizes included infusing water bottles, lemon squeezers and Mason jars.

All in attendance appreciated the samples and enjoyed them greatly. One patron was even brought up front to try her own hand at making infused water so she could take it home with her and try it later.

Some handy tips that Andrzejuk shared about infusing was to plan ahead with your shopping, pick your base (water, sparkling water, tea), slice ingredients, explore your fruit, herbs and spice options, add some spice if desired (such as cayenne pepper or cinnamon sticks) and finally don't skimp on the quality of ingredients.

The next Adult Services program is "Intro to Goodreads: A Bookworm's Best Friend" on Saturday, May 14 at 10 a.m. Looking for personalized book recommendations, or want to keep track of the books you're reading, have read, and want to read? How about information on upcoming releases from your favorite authors and in-depth discussions on the latest best-sellers? Come learn how to use Goodreads, the world's largest free website and social media platform dedicated to readers. Registration required.

For more information and a complete listing of scheduled programs, visit www.bartlettlibrary.org or call 630.837.2855.

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