8 Effective Tips to Help You Drink More Water (8 photos)

We all know that water is essential for life, and staying properly hydrated is key to feeling your best. Unfortunately, most of us fail to reach even half of our daily recommended intake. Many people believe that drinking juice, soda, tea, or coffee counts toward staying hydrated, but that is a common misconception.





Everyone needs to drink plain, clean water—and not just a glass or two, but at least 1.5 liters a day. If you struggle to stay hydrated, these game-changing tips will help you build a healthy water habit.

1. Pair Drinking Water with Daily Activities

Drinking enough water each day can be tough when you're just starting out. If your body isn't used to it, you might hit a mental roadblock. At first, you may feel like you're forcing yourself to drink. But after just a few days, it will start to feel natural, and your body will begin asking for the water it needs.



How can you make the transition easier? Tie every glass of water to a specific routine. Drink a glass right after waking up, as soon as you arrive at work, and once every hour during the workday. Consistency is key. The more committed you are to building this habit, the sooner it will become second nature.

2. Try Infused Water





Drinking plain water can sometimes feel boring. The lack of flavor might tempt you to give up, but that is no reason to quit. Try adding fruit- or herb-infused water to your routine. It is quick and easy to make—just add your favorite fresh fruits, berries, or vegetables. It is the ultimate refreshing drink for summer, and it offers the same great hydrating benefits as regular water.

3. Pour Smaller Amounts at a Time

Downing a full glass of water in one sitting can feel overwhelming. Start with a comfortable amount instead. It is far better to enjoy a few sips than to force down a full glass all at once.



By the way, chugging large amounts of water all at once isn't ideal. Aim for about 250–300 milliliters per serving. For maximum benefits, drink water 30 minutes before meals or an hour after.

4. Gradually Increase Your Daily Intake

Don't try to force down 6 to 8 glasses right away, and don't beat yourself up if you fall short of your daily goal. Staying hydrated should be a rewarding, positive habit—not a chore.



To ease into it, try filling your glass halfway with water and diluting it with fresh citrus juice, like orange or lemon. You can also freeze juice into ice cubes or simply add a slice of lemon or orange to your glass. Small touches like this make building a healthy habit much more enjoyable.

5. Keep a Pitcher of Water in Plain Sight



Keep a water pitcher or reusable bottle right where you can see it. Investing in an attractive bottle or carafe can serve as a stylish reminder to stay on track. Keep a glass nearby so everything is within easy reach. If getting a drink takes extra effort, you're more likely to put it off—and eventually forget altogether.

6. Don't Mistake Thirst for Hunger



Thirst and hunger send similar signals to the brain. Instead of drinking a glass of water and waiting a few minutes, many people head straight for the fridge. The result? Unnecessary calories and a heavy stomach from food your body didn't actually need. If you feel hungry shortly after eating, drink a glass of warm water first—you might just be thirsty.

7. Eat More Hydrating Fruits and Vegetables



Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential fluids. Some produce consists of up to 95% water, helping keep dehydration at bay while boosting your immune system. Focus on cucumbers, watermelon, cantaloupe, citrus fruits, zucchini, eggplant, celery, radishes, tomatoes, spinach, pineapple, apricots, grapes, and apples. Fresh berries are fantastic options, too—strawberries are 92% water, while blackberries are 85%.

8. Use Water Tracking Apps



Modern technology makes building new habits easier than ever. You don't have to rely solely on willpower. There are dozens of water-tracking apps available that log your daily intake and send timely reminders to help you reach your daily hydration goals.