How to Drink More Water

Drinking water is essential for good health. In fact, the human body needs water to survive. Among other things, water lubricates the joints, aids in digestion, regulates the body’s temperature, and facilitates the removal of waste. To help ensure the proper performance of these important functions, the optimal amount of water intake can vary based on a person’s weight, activity level, and environment (e.g., air temperature, humidity level, etc.). Many experts recommend consuming approximately eight eight-ounce glasses, or two liters, per day.

If you don’t drink enough water, you can potentially become dehydrated. Mild dehydration, which causes symptoms like dry mouth, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps, constipation, and dry skin, is usually easily treated with fluids taken by mouth to rehydrate the body. On the other hand, severe dehydration requires immediate medical attention because it can be life-threatening, possibly leading to low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, breathlessness, fever, delirium, and a loss of consciousness.

If you struggle to drink enough water, here are some tips to help you meet your daily requirement:

• Add flavor – Many people think plain water tastes boring; a hint of flavor can help. Instead of using store-bought flavoring agents, try something that is naturally delicious, such as watermelon or pineapple chunks, orange or lemon slices, raspberries, blueberries, or mint leaves.
• Think of water as an appetizer – Drink a bottle of water before eating a meal; in addition to increasing your daily fluid intake, it will also help you feel fuller and eat less.
• Order tap water instead of other drinks at restaurants – You’ll not only drink more water, but you’ll also save both calories and money.
• Enjoy spicy foods – Add a bit of crushed red pepper or other hot spices to your meal, and you’ll find yourself reaching for your water glass more often.
• Get a water bottle that you like – Look for a unique design or your favorite color; consider marking it with timed drinking goals (the amount of water you’d like to drink by certain times each day).
• Use a straw – With a straw, you’ll mindlessly and effortlessly sip away, not realizing how much water you’ve actually had.
• Keep it with you – Throughout the day, be sure to always have a source of water within close reach; this way, if you’re busy, you’ll be less likely to forget to drink.
• Make it part of your routine – Get into the habit of drinking a glass of water right after your shower, before your morning coffee, or at other times that are convenient for you. Keep water bottles in strategic places around your home or workplace to serve as reminders.

Drinking more water is one easy way to enhance your health and wellness. When you’re properly hydrated, you will sleep better, think more clearly, and achieve numerous other health-related benefits. Try to learn to love the taste of water; it’s so good for you.

If you’d like information about other ways to maintain and improve your health, please contact or visit South Tampa Immediate Care. Our walk-in clinic is conveniently located on South Howard Avenue in Tampa, FL, and no appointments are necessary.