Staying hydrated is crucial for your health, well all know this. But let’s face it – drinking enough water can be really hard. I get it, it’s not easy to remember to drink enough every day. With all the tempting options out there, like a refreshing cold brew (my own personal weakness), it’s easy to skip out on plain water. So how do you drink more water you ask? With this incredible list of hydration hacks, that’s how!
Staying hydrated just got a whole lot easier my friends. Let’s get to it!
1. Set a Water Intake Goal
The first step to successful hydration is setting a clear and achievable goal. Determine how much water you should be drinking per day based on your age, weight, and activity level.
Then, use a trusty water bottle with measurement markings to keep track of your intake.
An easy way that I keep track of my water intake is by making sure I’m drinking an entire big bottle of water every few hours.
I drink my first bottle right when I get up. Before coffee! This is super important because we get dehydrated when we’re sleeping. So make sure you’re hydrating asap when you wake up.
Then I make sure to drink my second bottle before lunch. Another after lunch and one before dinner/during dinner. Using these key moments throughout my day helps me manage my time and make sure I’m drinking my water on schedule so I don’t lose track.
2. Infuse Your Water with Flavor
Who says water has to be boring? Infuse your H2O with fresh fruits and herbs to make it more appealing and provide some healthy bonus benefits all at the same time.
You can add slices of lemon, cucumber, or strawberries for a refreshing twist. Or, experiment with herbs like mint or basil for something a little different.
3. Use a Water Tracking App
In this digital age, there’s an app for everything – including hydration!
If keeping track of your water in-take on your own is getting to be too much, then go for a handy water tracking app to help remind you when it’s time to drink up.
You can set reminders at regular intervals, and let the app do all of the work. Well most of the work. You still have to actually do the drinking of course.
Another great thing about apps is you can log your water intake and keep track of your daily, weekly or even monthly goals! It can be a super inspiring tool to help keep you motivated and stick with it.
4. Carry a Reusable Water Bottle
Invest in a high-quality, reusable water bottle that you can take with you wherever you go. I prefer ones with a straw or flip-top lid for easy sipping when I’m out and about.
Always having your water bottle within reach will make it really easy to stay hydrated. It doesn’t matter if you’re at the office, running errands, walking the dog or hitting the gym. Keep it nearby and that alone will help remind you to keep drinking.
5. Set Hourly Reminders
Sometimes, we get so caught up in our daily routines that we forget to drink water. I do this all the time. An easy way to get ahead of this is by setting hourly reminders on your phone. When that alarm goes off, take a sip (or a few). Before you know it, staying hydrated will become habit!
6. Eat Water-Rich Foods
Did you know that some foods can contribute to your daily hydration needs? Incorporate water-rich fruits and veggies like watermelon, cucumbers, and spinach into your meals. Of course you’ll get the boost of nutrients, but you’ll also help your body stay hydrated throughout the day.
Wanna save for later?
7. Drink Water Before and After Meals
Make it a rule to drink a glass of water before and after each meal. This will help ensure you’re getting in those glasses at key times throughout the day.
Bonus! Drinking water before a meal can also help make you feel slightly more full, helping you control your portion sizes so you don’t overeat.
After your meal, water aids in digestion and helps flush out toxins. It’s a win-win for your hydration and your overall health too!
8. Keep a Water Bottle on Your Desk
If you spend a significant amount of time at your desk, keep a water bottle within arm’s reach. Having water readily available will encourage you to take small sips throughout the day, keeping you hydrated and focused.
Plus, it’s a great way to break up those long work marathons. stretches of work. Treat these quick water breaks as your cue to stand up and move around. Take a few minutes to stretch and drink some water to keep from being stuck in your chair too long.
9. Set a Reward System
Positive reinforcement can be a powerful motivator. Set up a reward system for reaching your daily hydration goals. Treat yourself to a small indulgence, like a fancy coffee or a new book, when you successfully meet your water intake targets.
Celebrating your wins is a wonderful way to keep yourself motivated and help you maintain your hydration habits.
10. Use a Water Filter
Sometimes, the taste of tap water can be off-putting, making it harder to drink enough.
Invest in a high-quality water filter pitcher or attachment to improve the taste and quality of your water.
Eliminate any unpleasant chlorine or mineral tastes, and enjoy crisp, refreshing water that you’ll actually want to drink.
Larq actually makes a water bottle with a built in filter making it super easy to keep clean water within arms reach.
11. Drink a Glass of Water as Soon as You Wake Up
I touched on this earlier, but it’s super important to I’m bringing it back up.
After a night’s sleep, your body craves water. So, make sure to quench your body’s thirst as soon as you wake up!
It’s also a great way to kickstart your metabolism so make sure you don’t skip this one.
12. Opt for Sparkling Water
I absolutely love sparkling water and pretty much always have it on hand.
It’s great if you find plain water a bit too boring. Sparkling water is a wonderful and refreshing alternative.
You can even add a splash of lemon or any other fruit juice for a hint of flavor, or enjoy the fizziness all on its own.
Sparkling water can be a great way to mix up your hydration routine and keep things interesting. Just make sure to go for plain sparkling water. No added flavors. These can come with unwanted and questionable ingredients.
Grab the plain ole flavorless option and add your own flavor in if you want!
13. Drink Herbal Tea
Herbal teas can be a cozy and hydrating option, especially on cooler days. Choose caffeine-free varieties like chamomile or peppermint, and sip on warm tea throughout the day. This is my go to on a chilly evening when I want to decompress for the night.
Not only will you stay hydrated, but you’ll also benefit from the calming effects of these soothing brews.
14. Use a Water Bottle with Time Markers
Invest in a water bottle with time markers to help you stay on track with your hydration goals. These bottles have markings that indicate when you should have finished a certain amount of water by.
Use them as visual reminders to monitor your progress throughout the day. I have used them in past and love them! It’s super quick to see where I’m at and where I need to be.
15. Swap Out Sugary Drinks
One of the easiest ways to increase your water intake is by swapping out sugary drinks like soda or juice for good old H2O.
Not only will you be cutting back on empty calories, but you’ll also be making a healthier choice for your hydration needs.
16. Take Water Breaks During Screen Time
Whether you’re binge-watching your favorite show or working on a project, it’s easy to get lost in screen time and forget to hydrate.
Make it a habit to pause and take a water break every hour or so. This will help keep you hydrated, but you’ll also give your eyes a much-needed rest from the blue light.
17. Add Electrolytes to Your Water
For an extra hydration boost, consider adding electrolyte packets or drops to your water.
Electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium help balance the fluids in your body and promote better hydration. This hack is especially helpful for athletes or those who engage in strenuous physical activity.
And with summer quickly approaching, some additional electrolytes here and there won’t hurt when you find yourself sweating it up after an outdoor workout under the summer sun.
18. Drink Water Before and After Exercise
On that note. Don’t forget to drink plenty of water before and after exercise.
Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining energy levels and to help you perform at your best. Make it a habit to drink a glass of water before and after your workouts. This will help replenish any fluids lost through sweating and prevent cramps.
19. Use a Colorful Water Bottle
Let’s be honest, a boring water bottle can be a real buzzkill. Switch things up by choosing a bright, colorful, or patterned water bottle that speaks to your personal style.
I know how silly this sounds, but I seriously have found myself drinking way more water when I’m using a cute and colorful water bottle. It’s just way more fun!
20. Carry a Water Bottle Everywhere
Also, remember to keep your water bottle with you EVERYWHERE!
Out of sight, out of mind? Not today!
Make it a habit to carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go. Whether it’s at your desk, in the car, or on a hike, having water within reach will make it easier to stay hydrated throughout the day.
To Wrap this Up
These simple methods on how to drink more water are designed to seamlessly fit into your lifestyle. Consistent hydration is essential for feeling your best, and these tips will make it effortless and easy.
Before you know it, you’ll feel way more hydrated and healthier overall.
So stay committed and stay motivated my friends. I promise you’ll quickly start to feel your efforts paying off!
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