Tips for increasing intake
We recommend between 40-60 ounces a day unless one is already accustomed to drinking more. If you are not in that range, please increase it slowly, by 4-8 ounces per day to avoid flushing out your electrolytes. Here are some tips to help you increase your water intake.
Always carry a reusable water bottle
Walking around with a water bottle is a surefire way to increase your water intake. Vacuum-sealed metal bottles will keep water cold for hours.
Try a tasty upgrade!
Water is so important for our overall health but we admit it can get boring. Here are some water infusion ideas to help mix it up that you might enjoy.
- Citrus water – Add slices of lemon, grapefruit, orange, or lime for a refreshing flavor.
- Berry water – Slice up strawberries or blueberries for fruity flavors.
- Vegetable water – Cut up cucumbers, celery, or sweet peppers for a mellow flavor.
- Herb water – Use fresh dill, basil, chamomile, lemongrass, marjoram, oregano, parsley, peppermint, rosemary, sage, spearmint, and thyme for complex flavors.
Make up your own “drinking game!”
Find triggers to remind you to drink a glass of water throughout your day. For instance, whenever you leave the house, have a drink. As soon as you get in the door, have a drink.You can also set daily reminders on your phone to grab some water to stay on track throughout the day.
Drink water before every meal or snack
A straightforward way to increase water intake is to create this healthy habit: drink a glass of water before each meal or snack. This will also help make sure you are not overeating.
Eat water-rich foods
One sneaky way to increase the amount of water you consume daily basis: eat your water. Add fruits and vegetables with high water content to your grocery shopping list. Some top picks include cucumber (96% water), zucchini (95% water), and grapefruit (91% water).
Sip it!
Using a straw is an excellent tip for getting a lot of water in a short amount of time. Something about sipping through a straw makes the water go down easier. But skip the disposable plastic straws that are flimsy and not good for the planet. A great alternative is a reusable metal straw that is dishwasher-safe to keep clean.