Strawberry in water

If you do not enjoy drinking plain water, here are some other ways to increase your water consumption: 

  • Add fruit or vegetable slices to your water - Adding a couple of slices of fruit or vegetable to your water, such as lemon wedges or cucumber slices, could help vamp up the flavor of your water. Adding fruit or vegetables to your drinks has other health benefits, such as improved digestion. 
  • Add a dash of 100% juice to sparkling water - This is a great alternative for those who love fizzy drinks. It will resemble the sweet taste and carbonated feel of soda pop without the added sugar. 
  • Drink beverages high in nutrients - This includes drinks such as fat-free, skim, or plant-based milk. Drinking these would add more water, flavor, and nutrients to your diet. However, these should be consumed in moderation since they are high in calories. 
  • Consume more fruits and vegetables - For the average healthy person, 20% of your daily water consumption comes from the foods you consume. Eating foods that have a higher water content, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, helps you get more water in your diet. To learn more about fruits and vegetables, click here!

Replace Sugar-Sweetened Beverages With Water

Choose water
  • Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) are drinks that contain added sugars. These include sodas, fruit drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks, sweetened waters, and sweetened coffees or teas. 
  • Consuming SSBs puts individuals at an increased risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, cavities, and gout.
  • Choosing water over SSBs can reduce these risks and help individuals maintain a healthy weight and diet.