Celebrate the Hydrate: Keeping Up Your Water Intake

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By Rachel Derry
Staff Writer LIFamilies

One of the most important elements to sustaining human life is water. It's even suggested that the average person, who only maintains a minimal activity level, consumes at least 64 ounces of water a day. An astonishing feat, sometime it's hard to reach even half that goal in my daily life. There is always water available; a filter on the refrigerator at work, bottles all over the house, and even water filters right on the faucet; it's a matter of remembering to drink!

To try to up your water intake, if you are lacking, here are just a couple ways to ensure that you are taking in more.

Put a glass of water or water bottle (store bottle or self filled container) next to your bed every night when you go to sleep. In the morning, make sure that the water is gone before you get up to start your day! Now, this isn't an excuse to get to stay in bed for an extra hour, not wanting to drink. Use it, instead, as a motivational tool: you are already starting the day right by hydrating your body!

Once you are up and are reaching for your glass of juice in the morning add some water. Juice, although very beneficial, usually contains a lot of sugar. By adding in some water you will sneak in more H2O and less sugar.

Before every meal make sure you drink a glass of water. If you do so, not only will you increase your intake, but you'll be less likely to overeat or eat too quickly due to hunger. You will be able to watch your portions and your intake!

Make sure to have water on you at all time. Whether you are shopping with your girlfriend, walking your dog, or running errands on your way home from work, make sure to have a bottle of water on you at all times! You will find yourself sipping away at it without even thinking.

When you're thirsty, but want some flavor, throw in a handful of fruit! This may sound obvious to you, but you'll be amazed how much more water you will drink when it contains your favorite fruit. Don't worry about sticking with the "lemon" standby, either. Throw whatever you enjoy in your water to mix it up. A great example is frozen mixed fruit: not only will you get the flavor, but the fruit will also act as ice cubes!

Finally, when you are craving the bubble of carbonated soda, remember.seltzer counts as water! Grab your favorite flavor of seltzer or, again, add your favorite fruit to a glass of plain and enjoy your bubbles and your hydration.

Long Island Health, Fitness & Beauty Articles > Celebrate the Hydrate: Keeping Up Your Water Intake