Delicious Ways to Drink More Water
Photo source: openverse, Jeanne Menjoulet, Flickr
Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to look after your health as you age, yet many older New Zealanders find it hard to drink enough water. Our sense of thirst can fade over time, so we may not feel thirsty even when our bodies need fluids. The good news is that drinking more water can be enjoyable. Here are some delicious ways to get started.
Add Natural Flavour to Your Water
If plain water is not your favourite, try adding slices of fresh lemon, lime or orange to a jug and leaving it in the fridge. Cucumber and mint make a refreshing pair, while strawberries or blueberries add gentle sweetness. Kiwifruit slices are a lovely local twist. Infused water looks pretty on the table and tastes wonderful without any added sugar.
Enjoy Warm and Soothing Drinks
Not every glass needs to be cold. A cup of herbal tea such as peppermint, chamomile or ginger counts towards your daily fluids and feels comforting on a chilly morning. Hot water with a squeeze of lemon and a little honey is another simple favourite. Decaffeinated options are a good choice later in the day.
Eat Your Water
Many fruits and vegetables have a high water content. Watermelon, oranges, grapes, cucumber, celery and tomatoes all help top up your fluids. Soups, broths and stewed fruit are also easy ways to add moisture to your meals. A bowl of homemade vegetable soup is both nourishing and hydrating.
Make Water a Daily Habit
Link drinking to your daily routine. Have a glass when you wake, with each meal and during your favourite television programme. Keep a bottle or glass beside your favourite chair so it is always within reach. A pretty cup or a bottle with time markers can make the habit more fun, and a gentle reminder on your phone or kitchen clock can help too.
Try Sparkling and Frozen Treats
Sparkling water with a splash of fruit juice feels like a special occasion drink. Homemade ice blocks made from diluted juice, or frozen berries dropped into a glass of water, are a treat on warm summer days.
Good hydration supports energy, digestion, concentration and comfortable joints. Small changes add up, so start with one or two ideas and build from there. If you have a health condition or take medication that affects your fluid intake, check with your doctor or pharmacist about how much water is right for you. Here’s to feeling your best, one tasty sip at a time.
