Water has endless health benefits and should be the cornerstone of a healthy diet! Here’s 7 simple ways to drink more of it!
Water is an essential component of our daily lives. Our bodies are made up of about 60% water, and every cell in our bodies needs it to function properly. Staying hydrated has many health benefits, including improved digestion, clearer skin, better concentration, and even weight loss. However, many of us struggle to drink enough water each day. If you’re looking to increase your water intake, here are 7 simple ways to drink more water:
Table of Contents
1. BOTTLE IT UP
Preparation is everything. Think about it – we are more likely to be successful in healthy eating if we meal prep. So why wouldn’t we prep for drinking water? Invest in a good reusable water bottle and make it a cute one so you’ll be happy to carry it around. And always keep it filled up!
2. WATER AND DINE
Drink a glass of water with every meal and snack. It really is as simple and straight forward as that. Build a routine so that every time you eat you reach for some water. If you drink it just before you eat you might even find you eat less, as we can sometimes mistake thirst for hunger.
3. GET A LITTLE BIT FRUITY
Drinking plain water can feel a bit meh after a while, am I right? Well next time this happens, add some fruit, vegetables and herbs into the mix. There are plenty of different combinations to try, from plain lemon or lime slices to mixed berries and basil. You can even buy water bottles that come with a separate infuser chamber, or just use a standard jug to mix it all together.
4. EAT IT
Many fruits and vegetables are water-rich, which means we can keep hydrated whilst feasting. Winning! These foods include watermelon, strawberries, celery, zucchini, tomatoes, carrots, green peas and broccoli. Basically, if you are getting your daily recommended serves of fruit and veg there’s a good chance you are keeping up that H20.
5. ICE ICE BABY
Who else likes eating ice? Or is it just me? Surely it can’t just be me! Eating ice is a fun way to up your water intake and in summer it will also help keep you cool. I’ve seen people go so far as to make water popsicles with peas and other fruits / vegetables frozen inside. Worth a try!
6. GET FIZZY WITH IT
As we discussed back in point number 2 – plain water can get boring. If adding fruit isn’t your style you could also try drinking sparking or soda water. You can buy from the supermarket or make your own with a soda stream. Fizz it up!
7. THE ANSWER MAY BE ALARMING…
If all else fails, set yourself reminders on your phone or calendar. Or set an alarm on your phone to buzz every hour. Leave a pad on your desk at work that you mark every time you drink a bottle. There are even products now that you attach to your water bottle that buzz or blink at you when you forget to drink water for a long period. Just find a trigger that works for you!
Conclusion
In conclusion, drinking enough water is essential for good health. By using these seven simple ways to drink more water, you can make staying hydrated a habit that is easy to stick to. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can ensure that you get the benefits of drinking enough water every day.
FAQs: 7 simple ways to drink more water
Why is it important to drink more water?
Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining good health. It helps to keep the body hydrated, flushes out toxins, aids in digestion, and can even improve mood and cognitive function.
How much water should I drink each day?
The amount of water you should drink each day depends on various factors, such as your age, gender, activity level, and climate. A general guideline is to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water per day, but some people may need more or less.
Can I drink other fluids besides water to stay hydrated?
While other fluids can contribute to your overall hydration, water is the best choice for staying hydrated. Sugary drinks, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages can actually dehydrate you, so it’s important to drink plenty of water as well.
How can I remember to drink more water throughout the day?
There are several strategies you can use to remember to drink more water. Some suggestions include setting reminders on your phone, keeping a water bottle with you at all times, drinking a glass of water with every meal, and adding fruit or herbs to your water for flavor.
What are some water-rich fruits and vegetables that can help me stay hydrated?
Some water-rich fruits and vegetables include watermelon, strawberries, celery, zucchini, tomatoes, carrots, green peas, and broccoli. Eating these foods can help you stay hydrated in addition to drinking water.
Is sparkling water a good alternative to plain water?
Sparkling water can be a good alternative to plain water for some people. However, it’s important to check the label and choose a brand that doesn’t contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners.
What are some signs that I’m not drinking enough water?
Signs that you may not be drinking enough water include feeling thirsty, having dark-colored urine, experiencing dry mouth or skin, feeling tired or dizzy, and having headaches. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, try drinking more water and see if they improve.
To learn more about the benefits of drinking water and tips for increasing your water intake, check out these resources:
- Mayo Clinic Health System: Tips for drinking more water
- Wake Forest Baptist Health: 10 tips to drink more water every day
