As the weather really heats up (especially where I am in Texas!), staying hydrated becomes even more important for energy, focus, and physical performance. These hydration hacks make drinking water easier—and tastier—so you can stay on top of your game.
- Start your day with a glass of water. Kick off your morning with 8–12 oz to rehydrate after sleep. We all wake up somewhat dehydrated, so start tackling it with fluid right when you wake up! Remember that milk and smoothies at breakfast can also count towards your hydration.
- Add flavor naturally. Infuse water with citrus, mint, cucumber, or berries to keep things interesting. Actually adding fruit to your beverages is a great idea because you can eat it once finished!
- Snack on hydrating foods. Watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, strawberries, and melons are great water-rich options. Smoothies made with milk, yogurt, and fruit are also a nutrient-rich way to get carbohydrates, protein, and fluid if your appetite is low due to the heat.
- Don’t forget electrolytes. After a long workout or a hot day outside, replenish with a low-sugar sports drink or add salt to your post-workout snack/activity. The average person loses 3x the amount of sodium (aka salt) as potassium in sweat, and if you are a salty sweater, it can be more! That means you need to replenish both fluid and electrolytes!
- Make water accessible. Keep a reusable water bottle with you and set reminders to sip regularly. And if you need to, put alarm reminders on your phone. Dehydration can make you feel poorly, so do what you can to tackle dehydration before it starts!
Hydration isn’t just for athletes—it’s for anyone who wants to feel energized and focused through the day.