Chronic dehydration is prevalent across America today. With this precious substance that comprises 60% of our bodies playing second fiddle to soda, juice, and other unhealthy beverages. Water keeps your entire body functioning smoothly and efficiently, and when dehydration settles in, other health problems and complications begin to arise.
Often, the excuse for not drinking water is simply that “it doesn’t taste good” or “I’m not thirsty” and many people can’t seem to remember to give their system the liquid fuel that it needs. In fact, once you actually experience thirst, that means that dehydration is settling in and you should drink water immediately. Listen to your body and pay attention to the signals that it sends.
Admittedly, after a while, plain water can taste bland and boring, so it’s natural that you turn to other drinks to quench your thirst. The truth is, drinking water doesn’t have to be a burden. Try these simple tricks to increase your water intake in the new year and actually enjoy doing so.
Install a water filter
Though it may seem like a no-brainer, tap water doesn’t taste good. Plus, it’s incredibly unhealthy and filled with dangerous chemicals and heavy metals. Something that should be so good for your body shouldn’t be responsible for causing it harm. Install a filter on your tap or fridge and you will not only notice a shift in the quality of your water but in the taste as well. If you already use a water filtration system, use this opportunity to check your filters and be sure that they do not need to be replaced.
Add a squeeze of citrus
Squeezing a fresh lemon, lime, or orange into a glass of water can give it a nice citrus flavor. Try experimenting with different combinations to suit your taste. Another idea for utilizing the refreshing power of citrus is to peel clementines and freeze them, adding the individual slices to your water like ice cubes. This releases the sweet, delectable flavor of clementines while cooling your drink at the same time.
Fruit infusion
Add fruit of your choosing to a large pitcher and fill with water. Place in the fridge overnight and enjoy for a few days. I love using sliced melon, strawberries, blueberries, and watermelon.
Throw in some herbs
Putting mint leaves into a tall glass of ice cold water is not a new tradition. However, if you have other herbs growing in your garden or pots indoors, don’t be afraid to use those to add flavor and excitement to your water. Herbs such as basil, anise, and lavender all contribute unique and tasteful notes to your plain water. Infuse in the fridge overnight for optimal results.
Drink tea
As long as you don’t bog your tea down with sugar and cream, it can be a wonderful source of water. Not to mention, it is a great option when you don’t feel like drinking cold water on a winter day or just want something to warm you from the inside out.
Organic Broth
Strictly speaking, broth isn’t water, but it can replenish your bodies spent electrolytes, and, similar to tea, it can help hydrate you almost as well as water. Plus it has the added benefit of containing protein and nutrients that contribute to your health.
Sparkling water
Often, it is tempting to turn to soda when you are craving carbonation. However, instead of giving into unhealthy urges, drink carbinated seltzer water instead. Keep in mind that flavored water is full of sugar and dangerous chemicals. Always buy pure seltzer water with no added ingredients. You’ll be able to enjoy the fizziness while getting the hydration you need!
Freeze it
Experimenting with ice cubes can really encourage you to drink more water and make it taste better. Try freezing pure juice, crushed herbs, and water, or fruit in an ice cube tray and then adding it to your water. You can even find cool, exciting ice cube trays that make you just a little more excited to meet your water quota for the day.
There are so many delicious ways that you can help inspire yourself to drink more water. Experiment with different flavor combinations and get creative!
-Susan Patterson