We asked nutritionists and bloggers for their best tips on staying hydrated, especially if you don’t enjoy drinking plain water. From exploring carbonated water to adding electrolytes, here are five unique tips to help you stay properly hydrated.

  • Explore Carbonated Water
  • Infuse Water With Fruit
  • Set Hydration Goals
  • Use Smartwatch Reminders
  • Add Electrolytes to Water

Explore Carbonated Water

You can opt for carbonated water, which has zero calories, although its taste and texture differ from regular water. It offers a refreshing flavor and sensation. Any variation in how you drink water can be a great way to stay hydrated.

AL TranAL Tran
Blogger, Author, AI Trainer, DS Inspire

Infuse Water With Fruit

Maintaining proper hydration is a prerequisite for optimal health. As a clinical nutritionist, I recognize that drinking water might not appeal to everybody. My personal tip for proper hydration—and a way of supplying my clients, many of whom find water slightly boring, with something that tastes so much better than plain water—is flavoring water with natural fruit and herbs. This not only makes the water more palatable, but moreover, it also makes the water even more nutritious. My favorite mixture is sliced strawberries, a few basil leaves, and a splash of lime.

In addition, for a little something extra, I often make recommendations for herbal and fruit teas, hot or iced, seasonally. Hibiscus or chamomile teas can be made in bulk and chilled, hydrating solutions that also serve a therapeutic purpose, calming the nerves or even aiding in reducing inflammation. These tips aren’t just useful; they’re also linked to a more wellness-based approach to nutrition and life, reinforcing a more fun and nutritious way to stay hydrated. Showing us that hydration need never be boring or benign, but more flavorful and beneficial to the body daily, therapeutically if desired.

Renato FernandesRenato Fernandes
Clinical Nutritionist, Saude Pulso

Set Hydration Goals

I focus on taking hydrating foods and drinks into my daily routine. It provides me with the necessary hydration, boosts my energy levels, and keeps me feeling refreshed all day long. I love to keep low-sugar sports drinks on hand for post-workout hydration, as they contain electrolytes to replenish my body. I noticed that using a reusable water bottle with measurements serves as a constant reminder to drink enough water throughout the day.

I have found it very effective to add frozen fruit, mint, or herbal tea into ice cubes and toss them into the water for a slow-release flavor as they melt. It’s a great way to keep your water interesting and flavorful without reaching for sugary drinks. I also make sure to drink a glass of water before every meal, which hydrates me and helps with portion control.

I highly recommend setting specific hydration goals for yourself, such as drinking 8 glasses of water each day or finishing a certain amount by lunchtime. It can be challenging at first, but once it becomes a habit, you will notice the positive impact on your overall health and productivity. My secret trick is setting reminders on my phone or computer to drink water at specific times during the day. This keeps me on track and ensures that I am getting enough hydration.

Daniel CookDaniel Cook
HR / Marketing Executive, Mullen and Mullen

Use Smartwatch Reminders

As a busy house flipper, I’ve learned to set hourly reminders on my smartwatch to take a hydration break. I keep a cooler in my truck stocked with electrolyte packets—they’re a lifesaver during those sweltering Michigan summers on job sites. And here’s a tip: I freeze water bottles overnight so I have ice-cold water all day long, even when I’m knee-deep in renovations.

Bryan MelchertBryan Melchert
Owner, Mitten Home Buyer

Add Electrolytes to Water

Staying hydrated with a chronic illness means being mindful of salt intake. I add mineral salt and potassium chloride to my water for an electrolyte boost, which helps with energy and fluid retention. This method ensures I’m getting what my body needs without relying on plain water, which I find bland. It’s especially important for those with chronic illnesses, as we tend to need more salt to stay balanced and hydrated.

Doreen NunezDoreen Nunez
Founder, Mommy Rheum