Getting an adequate amount of water every day is an essential part of living a healthy lifestyle. Proper hydration is important for many bodily functions, including flushing toxins out of the body, protecting organs, regulating body temperature, preventing headaches, lubricating joints and muscles, preventing constipation, and helping our brains perform optimally. Drinking water can also help you maintain a healthy weight. Drinking enough water can help you feel full between meals and snacks and help you keep your daily caloric intake in check.
Here are 7 tips to help you consume enough water throughout your day.
- Carry a reusable bottle
Remembering to drink water throughout the day is half the battle, and a great way to remind yourself is to have a reusable bottle on hand. This will make it easy for you to drink while you’re on the go while always offering a visual reminder to drink more water!
- Track your consumption
In a daily planner or on your phone, track how many cups or bottles of water you have had throughout the day. This will help you reach your goal amount for the day and can keep you accountable for drinking more water.
- Incorporate drinking water into a routine
Every time you get up from your desk, take a sip of water. A routine like this can help you stay on top of your consumption. It doesn’t matter what the routine is; whatever helps you stay motivated and reminded to drink some water is a great choice
- Add fruit/healthy flavoring
Drinking water consistently can get a little boring, especially if you aren’t a big fan of the taste. Using lemon, lime, orange, or any fruit and veggie is a great way to keep your water interesting and different. If the texture of normal water also gets mundane, try sparkling! When trying different flavored or sparkling waters, be sure to check the ingredients for added calories and sugars.
- Set reminders
Set an alarm or some alert to remind yourself to take a drink of water, which will help you stay hydrated evenly throughout the day.
- Make a daily goal
Set a goal to drink half of your daily water intake goal by noon or another time that works better for you. That way, you don’t put it off until the end of the day, making the second half of the day easier to handle.
- Use a big straw
If you prefer to drink out of a straw, using a large straw with a big opening, like a smoothie straw, will help you take bigger gulps when you take your drinks of water. This allows you to take more water in with each drink!