It is important for your health to drink plenty of water every day. Drinking water can help prevent dehydration, which can cause foggy thinking, mood swings, overheating, constipation, and kidney stones. Because water contains no calories, it can also aid in weight management and calorie reduction when substituted for calorie-containing beverages such as sweet tea or regular soda.
Here are some pointers to help you improve your water intake:
- Flavor it.
- Add fruit to your water. Lemons, limes, and oranges are tried and true. Cucumber, watermelon, strawberries, and herbs are also delicious options.
- Tie it into a routine.
- Drink a glass of water every time you brush your teeth, eat a meal, or use the bathroom.
- Eat it.
- Many fruits and vegetables have a high water content, including melon, cucumbers, lettuce, and celery.
- Track it.
- Invest in a high-tech bottle that connects to your smartphone and records how much you drink. Or set an alarm as a reminder and track your intake on your calendar.
- Challenge a friend.
- Kick off a healthy competition with a friend or your kids to see who can meet their water intake goal most often.
- Take it to go.
- It can be challenging to drink enough water when you are on the go. Fill your water bottle before you leave home, and bring it along on your daily travels.
- Alternate your drinks.
- If you can’t give up soda or juice completely, try alternating with water. Each time you finish a glass of water, switch to soda or juice and vice versa.