11 Ways to Drink More Water Every Day
Updated: Dec. 20, 2023
Here are some tips to help you drink more water each day.
Drinking enough water is important for everyday health. But more than half of us are chronically dehydrated, which can lead to fatigue, headaches, dry skin, dizziness and more. No good! If you have a hard time drinking the amount of water you need each day, these tips can help get you on track.
Set a goal for drinking water
One of the simplest ways to make sure that you drink more water each day is to set a goal—and stick to it. When we have a target, it’s far easier to take actionable steps toward it. Figuring out how much water you should drink a day is easy. Simply divide your weight by 2.2, then multiply that number using the following guidelines:
- If you’re younger than 30, multiply by 40
- If you’re between 30 and 50, multiply by 35
- If you’re older than 55, multiply by 30
Last, divide the answer by 28.3. Your final calculation is the number of ounces of water you should drink every day.
Write this number down and, at the end of the day, review whether you hit your goal. Recording it in your bullet journal might help, or use one of these fun water bottle tracker stickers on any calendar.
Add some fruit to your water
Mix things up when it comes to your water game. Try infused water! Chop up some fruit, such as strawberries or oranges and add the slices to a pitcher of water. The drink will be so refreshing and tasty, you won’t be able to stop yourself from drinking the whole lot.
Track how much you sip
No clue how much water you usually drink? You’re not alone. Tracking your water consumption is a genius way to stay on top of it. There are a couple of apps you can use, such as Waterlogged or Waterbalance, that do all the hard work for you. All you have to do is tap the app each time you drink a glass of H2O!
Sip water before you eat
When you’re seriously hungry, the last thing that’s likely to be on your mind is reaching for a tall glass of water, but maybe you should. Often enough, when we’re thirsty, it can feel like hunger. To help prevent dehydration, drink a little water before you sit down to eat.
Get a filter pitcher
Don’t have a water filter pitcher yet? Purchasing a filter jug that removes contaminants that can have an off-flavor is an excellent way to keep your drinking water safe and increase your cups per day. Keep the pitcher in the front of the fridge so you’ll see it each time you open the door. It will be a constant reminder of what you need to do! Manufacturers like Brita, ZeroWater, Larq and Waterdrop offer a variety of models that are efficient and affordable.
Always carry a water bottle
One of the major reasons that so many people forget to drink water is that they don’t have it on hand. There’s a simple way to solve that problem! Make sure that you carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go. Invest in a good quality bottle that keeps your water chilled, is easy to clean and compact enough to tote along with you.
Eat foods that are rich in water
If you’re not a big drinker (or always forget your water at home), there’s another way to get a little more H2O in your diet. Why not eat foods that are water-rich? For example, lettuce, cucumber and watermelon are refreshing and super hydrating foods.
Have some spicy food
There’s nothing quite like the kick of spice from fresh jalapeno recipes. If you’re a spice-loving fiend, you should have no problem when trying to drink more water. The next time that you have a hot, hot meal, make sure you have a large glass of water on the side. The spices should encourage you to drink more than usual.
Quit drinking juice and soda
Spoiler: Juices and sodas are packed full of sugar and calories. When you cut them out, replace them with water and you may find that you naturally lose weight and feel much better. Interestingly, drinking hot water may have even more benefits. Ready to ditch soda once and for all? Here’s how soda affects your body.
Hit the gym after work
Guess what? Gym bunnies crave water 24/7. It’s because exercising makes you super thirsty. Not only is hitting the gym and getting active great for your lifestyle, but it also means that you naturally crave more water. In turn, you’ll look and feel great after drinking enough water every day.
Sip a glass while you’re waiting for your coffee or tea to brew
Enjoy a daily cup of joe? While you’re waiting for your coffee to brew or your tea to steep, drink an 8-ounce glass of water. Remember that caffeine from all types of coffee can have a slight diuretic effect, which means it may cause your body to lose water. To make up for that, nutritionists recommend at least one cup of water for every cup of coffee or two cups of black tea.
Originally Published: August 27, 2020
