Got Water? 5 Simple Tips to Drink More Water
We’ve all heard it before, right? You need to stay hydrated. But how often do we find ourselves at the end of the day realizing we’ve barely had any water? And we wonder why we feel like crap! This was me for a very long time. I drank coffee all day and maybe got 1 cup of water in…maybe…on a good day.
What I’ve learned is that water is one of of nature’s cure-alls and my immediate go-to when something isn’t right:
Have a headache? Drink water.
Tired? Drink water.
Hungry? Drink water.
Brain fog? Drink water.
Constipated? Drink water.
It’s the first question I ask my kids when they complain about being hungry, tired, etc. – “How much water have you had today?” The answer is almost always not enough.
The truth of it is, water plays such a vital role in our bodily functions – digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation, etc. – that when we don’t get enough water, our bodies just don’t function properly. Staying hydrated is essential for energy levels, mental clarity, and overall vitality, especially as busy moms.
And here’s a fact that really helps me keep my water going: when we don’t get enough water, our body takes dirty water from our colon and sends it to our brain. So, we literally have 💩 for brains, as my friend Keith says.
Now that you have that lovely image stuck in your head, let’s chat ways to help us get that water in.
1. Infuse Your Water with Flavor:
I used to hate drinking water because it tasted gross. Here are some ways to fix that:
- Add slices of citrus fruits, berries, or cucumber to your water for a refreshing twist.
- Add Essential Amino Acids to your water to help preserve and build lean muscle as you age. I drink 1-2 servings per day!
- Add sugar free flavoring drops or electrolyte powders, like my favorite LMNT. By using my link, you get a bonus sample pack with your first order!
Pro tip: carry sugar free flavoring drops (like Mio) in your purse so that you will have something to put in your water at restaurants.
Not only will this make your water taste good, it also adds a dose of vitamins and antioxidants, depending on which option you choose.
2. Set Reminders:
It’s easy to forget to drink water during a busy day, and let’s be honest – when it is NOT a busy day? Set reminders on your phone or use a hydration app to prompt you to take regular sips.
If an electronic reminder isn’t an option for you, try putting rubber bands or hair bands around your water bottle every time you refill (or start with so many bands and remove one when you refill). This will be a visual cue of how much water you’ve had!
This simple trick can make a significant difference in reaching your daily water goals without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Invest in a Good Water Bottle:
A good water bottle is kind of like an American Express card – never leave home without it! (Yes, I know I dated myself with that one.) When you have water with you at all times, you are much more likely to drink it.
I’ve tried many water bottles over the years, and what I can tell you is that you need to find one that works for you. For me, I know I need one with a straw, while my friend Micki likes to gulp her water. I also need one that will fit in my cup holder. I had one for about a year or more that didn’t fit in my cup holder, and it was a nuisance!
Here a few that I like:
Hidrate Spark Pro Smart water bottle – this one will remind you to drink!
Stanley Quencher H2.0 – this is my current water bottle. I asked for it for Christmas, and I love it! I have the 40 oz one and drink 4 during the day. (note – I worked my way up to this!)
Motivational Water Bottle – I love that this one cheers you on, just be sure to refill it!
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4. Create a Water Routine:
Get into a water-drinking routine that aligns with your daily schedule. For instance, keep your water bottle beside your bed and make it a habit to drink a glass or two of water first thing in the morning before coffee!
Yes, before coffee. Coffee is my reward for drinking water. 🏆 Drink water before meals and snacks, and before bedtime.
This consistent routine helps ensure you meet your hydration needs without feeling overwhelmed.
5. Make it a Family Affair:
Encourage your family, including your children, to drink water. Make it a fun family challenge to drink a certain amount of water each day.
This not only benefits your health, but passes healthy habits to your kiddos from a young age.
Whatever option you choose, just make sure it works for you. And if it doesn’t work for you, try something different until you find what does.
I’d love to know what your tips and tricks are! Comment below. ⬇️
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