I know I’m not the only one who is SO ready for spring. The weather is getting warmer and it’s making me so happy! This gal needs more Vitamin D! With warmer weather, we’ll all probably be spending more time outside in the sun- which is definitely great! But, that also means it’s easier to sweat, to get dehydrated, and it’s important to start getting in the habit now of drinking plenty of water!

I personally have never struggled with my water intake- I drink water with every meal, drink a ton throughout the day, I don’t really drink soda or milk, and I never drink coffee or tea, so water is my go-to drink of choice! While I’m definitely no pro, I think I can share some tips to help you make sure you’re getting the water your body so desperately needs! There are so many healthy benefits to drinking water- you’d be crazy not to make sure it’s a top priority! Here are some tips you can try:

• Drink a glass of water before each meal. This is a natural time to consume something, and as a bonus, it can help you eat less because you’ll feel fuller. But whether you drink water with your meal or not, drink one glass of water before you begin eating. Depending on how you break up your meals, that could easily be 3-6 glasses of water down with very little extra effort!
• Get a water bottle. I notice a HUGE difference in my water intake when I’m carrying a water bottle around, versus when I’m not. When you’re carrying water with you, it’s so easy to just take a sip here and there- while reading, while typing, while watching a show, while folding laundry, whatever you may be doing! My personal favorites are Contigo water bottles. I am REALLY picky on my water taste- I prefer drinking from plastic over glass, but some plastics make the water taste nasty! Contigo water bottles don’t affect the taste at all (in my opinion), and I’ve been able to find some large 32 ounce ones at my local Walmart for quite cheap- and they’ve held up really well! Below I’ve included a picture of the particular model I love: (check the sources for the amazon link- keep in mind it’s a 24 oz, not a 32 oz model)


• Add flavoring. I love the taste of water, but I know not everyone does! Some water bottles have special compartments that allow you to add stuff you can use to flavor your water- like sliced lemons, limes, berries, mint leaves, etc. You can also try sugar-free flavoring packets and add it to any water bottle. If adding flavor helps you drink more water- then do it!
• Make a goal. Sometimes, we just need some accountability. Carry a jug around at home and mark how much you need to drink by certain milestones in the day (e.g. noon, 3:00, dinnertime, bedtime). There are also apps available that can help you track your water intake, which can be a very helpful tool for those of you who are data-driven and techy (like my husband!). It can also help to have a water buddy! Find a friend who will join you, and keep each other accountable.
• Sub at least one drink a day with water. Instead of a glass of orange juice at breakfast, have a glass of water. Instead of your afternoon coffee, have some flavored water. If you pick up soda in the morning, try to shoot for a large glass of water with berries instead! And if you have to take baby steps (e.g. sparkling flavored water), then that’s ok- it’s a start!
• Drink a big glass of water first thing in the morning. Fatigue can actually be a sign of dehydration, and after a whole night of not drinking, your body could definitely replenish some fluids! This can be a really helpful way to help you wake up in the morning- and to get some of your water goal down! This can also be a helpful trick in the afternoon when you’re in the sleepy slums. Drink a big glass of iced lemon water and see how much more awake you feel!

What are your favorite ways to make sure you’re drinking enough water? Share your ideas with us below!