By Adrian Sparrow
NeuLine Health

We all know that water equals life. It helps your digestive system function and works with your urinary and immune systems to flush toxins from the body. Water keeps your joints lubricated, regulates body temperature, and gives your skin a healthy glow. Many of us don’t meet our daily water requirements and go through life in mild dehydration. Tiredness, dizziness, low mood, and lack of focus could occur because you need to drink more water. Most people need between 90 – 130 oz of water each day. But in today’s busy world, how can you drink up? 

 

Ways to Drink More Water: 

-Get a Favorite Water Bottle

Find a water bottle that you love and carry it around with you. Some bottles have hydration markers on them, while others include infusers for you to add your own fresh fruits and herbs. Find a bottle that fits well in your hand, has a mouthpiece or straw just the way you like it, or matches all your outfits. 

-Form New Habits

People can form new habits in as little as one month. Drink an 8oz glass of water with your morning medication, every time you pass the water cooler at work, with every meal, or before bed. When you get your morning coffee or an evening cocktail, drink a glass of water alongside it. Set reminders on your phone or leave a sticky note on the bathroom mirror. However you can, associate drinking water with something else in your routine, and soon hydration will become second nature. 

-Use a Straw

People typically drink faster when they use a straw. Consider investing in a reusable silicone, glass, or metal straw, some of which fold up for portability. They’re stylish; you’ll drink more water and help save the planet. 

-Flavor

Plain water isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. While some people love the taste of plain unflavored water, others can’t stand the thought. Add fruit to your water, like lemons, limes, and oranges; cucumber, berries, and mint are popular flavors. At the grocery store, look for unsweetened drinks. Flavored sparkling water is a delicious alternative to plain water but look carefully- some sparkling waters have sweeteners and other added ingredients. 

-Ice or No Ice? 

Sipping on cool or room temperature water is easier than a glass full of ice, and as a result, you can drink water more quickly. On the other hand, adding ice to drinks that aren’t water is a great way to increase your water intake. Some people like the taste of ice water better than lukewarm. It also helps keep you cool on a hot summer day. Whether you drink with or without ice, be sure you’re drinking enough water. 

-Water Filled Foods

Many fruits and vegetables have a very high water content, including watermelon, celery, lettuce, oranges, tomatoes, cucumbers, and strawberries. Dairy foods like skim milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese are also full of water. Whatever your diet, there’s a hydrating food that counts toward your daily water intake. 

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