Tips to help you drink more water
Water has been hailed as the solution to everything from brain health to weight loss. The benefits aren’t an exaggeration, though. H20 plays a considerable role in keeping our bodies healthy and functioning properly. Even beyond that, water assists in the production of neurotransmitters, specifically dopamine and norepinephrine, that are necessary for better executive functioning. So for people with ADHD, proper water intake is particularly essential. Even with that knowledge, staying hydrated is hard for most of the population. To make it easier, we’ve compiled a list of expert strategies to make drinking enough water achievable.
How can you drink more water?
1. Three words: Big reusable bottle.
We can’t recommend enough how carrying around something like a Nalgene or Hydroflask will increase your daily hydration. Sometimes, we don’t get enough water out of sheer laziness, so not having to get up to refill your glass constantly is a game-changer. You’ll find yourself doubling your water intake simply because you have more water on hand. Bonus points if the bottle has measurements marks.
2. Add some flavor
If you’re one of the many that aren’t too jazzed by the taste of water, then add some fruit, vegetables, or herbs into the mix. Try out different combinations to see what works for you. We’re big fans of lemon, cucumber, and mint over here! Pro tip: Let them steep in the water overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Track your cups
You can use an app or a notepad to track the amount of water you drink. Make it into a game, where you get a reward whenever you hit your target hydration! You won’t be able to reward yourself forever, but this is an easy way to trick your brain into forming a habit.
4. Choose foods with high water content
Water consumption isn’t limited to beverages. Foods like cucumber, watermelon, and zucchini are not only nutritionally sound but can up your hydration levels as well.
5. Link it with other habits
Think of things that you do every day and tag drinking a glass of water onto them. Make it a rule that you have to have a cup of water while the coffee is brewing or after you take your pills. It’s easier to form a habit when it’s attached to the one you already have.
6. Start and end your day with water
Grab a glass as soon as you wake up and before you fall asleep. If you already have a morning or bedtime routine add in drinking a cup of H20 as your first step. It’ll start your day off right and get you in the flow of staying hydrated.
7. Imbibe unconventionally
Don’t settle for the traditional water routine! Choose a cup that you love or is super unique! Get silly straws to make the process more fun. Drink out of a wine glass to make it feel festive. Some people even sip water with a spoon just to mix things up. Indulge your inner child, and you’ll find yourself reaching for water more often.
