Temperatures are rising! And with warmer months, it’s great to get back outdoors and enjoy fresh air and activities. But don’t let the heat sneak up on you! Staying hydrated during summertime is super important.

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Why is Hydration Important?

Hydration is more than just quenching thirst. t and staying hydrated helps maintain optimal overall health and well-being. Every cell, tissue, and organ in your body relies on water to function properly, from regulating body temperature and supporting digestion to keeping joints flexible.

Dehydration happens when you lose more fluids than you take in. This can ultimately cause various symptoms, like fatigue, dizziness, and headaches. Chronic dehydration can lead to even more severe complications, like kidney stones or heat-related illnesses. This can be even more detrimental if you’re an athlete trying to lose or maintain a healthy weight. Staying hydrated is essential for optimal performance, cognitive function, and overall vitality.

Whether you're an athlete striving for peak performance, an active individual wanting a solid recovery after exercise, or someone aiming to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, hydration will play a role in your success. Proper hydration supports endurance, strength, and cognitive function for better performance. It also increases recovery time by replenishing lost fluids and nutrients, reducing the risk of post-exercise fatigue and muscle soreness. And hydration supports weight management efforts by regulating appetite, promoting metabolism, and optimizing energy levels to help you achieve your health and fitness goals.

These are all great reasons to make it a priority throughout the day. But how can you drink more water? 

 

How to Drink More Water: Our Top Tips

Let's explore six creative ways, from adding flavor to gamification, to make drinking water more enjoyable and ensure you get enough of this valuable nutrient.

1. Add a Flavor Enhancer.

Let’s face it – sometimes plain water is just…boring. That's where flavor enhancers come in. Whether it's a squeeze of citrus, a splash of fruit juice, or a powdered electrolyte mix, adding a burst of flavor can jazz up your water and make hydration feel like a treat. Especially for athletes or anyone who may spend a lot of time outdoors, electrolyte-enhanced options will replenish what's lost during intense physical activity or sweat.

2. Make It Sparkle.

Sparkling water adds a fizz of excitement to hydration. The effervescence can make drinking water feel like a special indulgence, especially when served in a fancy glass with ice and a slice of lemon or lime. (And perhaps a cute little umbrella…) With various flavored sparkling water options available, there's something to suit every palate.

3. Infuse It with Fresh Fruit and Vegetables.

Infuse your water to take hydration up a notch. Fill a pitcher with filtered water and add fresh fruit, vegetables, and herbs, then let it sit for a few hours or overnight. This adds fresh flavor, and you get a nutrient boost, too! Experiment with combinations like cucumber and mint, berries and basil, or citrus and ginger. Check out this Minty Ginger Lemongrass Water recipe for inspiration.

4. Find a Water Buddy

Everything's more fun with a friend, including staying hydrated. Partner up with someone for hydration challenges and accountability. Set goals together, track your progress, and celebrate your achievements. Having a water buddy can make drinking water feel like a shared adventure rather than an arduous solo trek.

5. Eat Your Water

You don’t just get water from what you drink; you can also hydrate with what you eat. Many fruits and vegetables have a high water content and will contribute to your daily hydration goals. Think berries, watermelon, cucumber, carrots, and more. Get a longer list here. Incorporating hydrating foods into your diet can complement your fluid intake and keep you feeling refreshed.

6. Use Fun Ice Cubes

Make hydrating feel like a playful experience. Upgrade your ice cubes by experimenting with different shapes and sizes. You can find all kinds of ice tray shapes in stores now, like hearts, stars, and roses. You can even find ice cube shapes for different fruits and vegetables! Take a step further by adding a twist of flavor. Freeze fresh fruit into ice cubes or squeeze fresh fruit juice into ice cube trays for a tasty addition to your water as it melts.

 

Final Thoughts About How to Drink More Water

Staying hydrated doesn't have to be a chore. By incorporating these six tips into your daily routine, you can make hydration fun and enjoyable. Remember to listen to your body's cues and prioritize drinking water throughout the day. If you're looking for personalized guidance on nutrition and hydration, consider getting a WAG nutrition coach for support. Maintaining proper hydration is essential for optimal performance, recovery, and overall well-being. Cheers to a hydrated and healthy you!