Everyone knows by now that we should all be drinking waaaay more water than is humanly enjoyable. As a human who has never enjoyed drinking the blandness that is water, I thought I'd hunt down some ways to make the whole thing more bearable. After all, we need water for the following very compelling reasons:
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Hydration: Water is necessary to keep your body hydrated. Our bodies are made up of about 60% water, and we need to replenish this fluid regularly to avoid dehydration. FACT!
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Regulates body temperature: Water helps regulate body temperature by sweating and releasing heat. This is especially important during exercise or hot weather. FACT!
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Aids digestion: Water is crucial for digestion, as it helps break down food and move it through the digestive system. FACT!
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Supports kidney function: Our kidneys rely on water to filter waste from our bodies. Drinking enough water helps keep our kidneys healthy and functioning properly. FACT!
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Improves skin health: Water is important for skin health, as it helps keep skin hydrated and can improve the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. FACT!
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Boosts energy levels: Dehydration can lead to fatigue and decreased energy levels, so drinking water can help you feel more alert and energized. FACT!
I'm impressed by all those facts, how about you? Here's 11 ways to get through a day involving drinking enough water to keep scientists and personal trainers happy:
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Get a reusable bottle that makes you feel fancy
I have a (possibly unhealthy) obsession with the variety of amazing water bottles available at the moment, probably because they distract me from the sad fact of water itself. I love that they come in different colors, patterns and materials. I love that there are even different tops to drink from, so you can find one that fits your preferred way of forcing it down you. Find one you really like and then carry it around with you constantly like you just got done with a yoga or (god forbid) spin class. -
Add flavor
Infuse it with fruits or herbs, like strawberry, crushed raspberries or mint. You can also add a squeeze of lemon or lime juice if you're hellbent on some kind of revolution. -
Eat water-rich foods
Incorporate water-rich foods into your diet, such as cucumber (96% water), marrows (95% water) and watermelon (92% water). These foods can help keep you hydrated and contribute to your overall water intake, and I am now convinced that they don't get the respect they deserve. -
Drink water with meals
Drink a glass of water with every meal to help increase your overall water intake. You can also sip on water throughout the meal to help you feel full and avoid overeating. Don't drink TOO much at mealtimes, though, as it can impede your digestion a little and make you sad (only part of this statement is true). -
Use a straw
Using a straw can make it easier to drink more water by allowing you to take bigger sips without feeling like you're drinking too much at once (self delusional and practical in equal measure). -
Tie it into a routine
Drink a glass of water every time you brush your teeth, eat a meal or use the bathroom. Try not to notice that your life has taken a huge downturn overall. -
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 in your calendar. I have nothing bad to say about this. Do it and rejoice. -
Challenge a friend
Kick off a healthy competition with a friend or your kids to see who can overcome their natural desire to not drink water the most effectively. This is a lose/lose situation, so be prepared for no one to like you afterwards. -
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. This is called compromising on what you really want and I don't think I should be recommending it. -
Soup
If all else fails, hide water inside some other food and call it soup. Can be hot or cold and taste of just about anything that grows or lives on the planet. Will still be better than water. -
Add a sparkle
Try drinking seltzer or other water-based drinks with bubbles. Not champagne, that won't help. Or will it?
FREE BONUS SUGGESTION:
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Listen to this hypnotherapy session
The easiest option. Let Clear Minds do the heavy lifting so you can stay hydrated with absolutely no extra effort and without even realising you're doing it. My personal recommendation for anyone who is water averse and owns many whimsical water bottles.
So there you have it. I hope I have inspired you to consider a life that contains the impossible mix of more water AND more joy. Please comment below if you have anything to add to the list and I promise to consider it very, very carefully.
