Water is important all year long, but it’s especially essential when it’s scorching hot or humid outside. And we’re not talking about the body of water you visit on vacation or your local swimming pool, but rather the water in your glass!
When it’s hot outside, you’re sweating, even if you’re not exercising or getting your heart pumping. That sweat means your body is losing the important hydration it needs to keep your body temperature steady, not to mention move around comfortably. Thus, you need to replace that hydration frequently to avoid dehydration; dehydration can lead to things like headaches and heat exhaustion, or more serious conditions like kidney problems.
Many people don’t love drinking plain water or consider it a chore to get their recommended ounces each day, but because it’s so important for your health, it’s imperative that you find a way to hydrate and do so often, as in all day, every day. Below, we’ve collected some of our favorite easy ways to stay hydrated this summer.
1. Buy a water bottle you enjoy using. If you like the bottle, you’ll be more inclined to fill it up often, keep it at your desk, and take it with you on the go. For some people, this may be a stainless steel tumbler with a straw for easy drinking, while others prefer a sportier water bottle. You may have to try a few to find the right one for you; ask friends for recommendations and borrow a bottle for a day so you don’t blow your budget buying bottle after bottle.
2. Keep water close at hand. If it’s nearby, you'll drink it! Keep a glass or bottle in the places you spend the most time, like at your desk, by your bed, at your office, and in your car.
3. Dress it up. Make your daily H2O more fun by adding mint, berries, or a squeeze of citrus. You can also swap water for herbal or mint tea, but make sure it’s not packed with hidden sugar or caffeine too late in the day. In addition, you can also try water flavor drops (just make sure they’re sugar free or low sugar!) or coconut water as a substitute to regular tap water.
4. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies can be a hidden source of water, especially things like watermelon, strawberries, and cucumber. As an added bonus, they taste deliciously cool on a hot day.
5. Order water with your cocktail. Meeting friends for drinks? Pair your cocktail with a glass of water, as alcohol can be dehydrating. This can also help reduce the risk of hangovers the next day.
6. Set reminders to hydrate. If you really want to hit your hydration goals, set hourly reminders to fill up a glass and drink it down. If you’re motivated by gamifying your habits, try downloading a water app.
7. Drink water before anything else. When you find yourself craving a juice or soda, start with water instead, as you may just be thirsty. You might be surprised how quickly your craving goes away!