Reply to comment

Drinking water is essential to all life on earth and its importance in our health and well-being is often understated. Are you drinking the recommended 8 glasses of water a day? Are you drinking more when you are active or if it's really hot? If you're exercising, you should be drinking a glass of water for every twenty minutes of exercise, in addition to the 8 glasses of water a day. Follow these recommendations to increase your water intake for a healthier and more vibrant you.

1. Carry a water bottle. Always have a water bottle with you at all times. It's much easier to drink water when it's readily available. Keep a stainless steel bottle in your car, at work, in your gym bag and even around the house. You'll be drinking much more water without even noticing it.

2. Add lemon. People often don't drink water because they don't enjoy the taste of it. Add a slice of lemon to your water or even a splash of pure fruit juice to give it some flavor.

3. Try different types of water. If you get bored of drinking water, mix it up and drink club sodas, carbonated water (think Perrier or San Pellegrino) or flavored water.

4. Drink with coffee or alcohol. For every alcoholic beverage or coffee you drink, make sure to drink a glass of water with it.

5. Hungry? Drink water. We often mistake our thirst for hunger, so if you're stomach's growling, drink a glass or two of water and this may just help with the feelings of hunger. This is one of the best weight loss tips you should consider.

6. Water filters. A low cost alternative to buying filtered water, filtered water tastes better. Add a couple of slices of lemon to your filter and you'll be drinking lots in no time.

7. Drink before a meal. Water is a natural appetite suppressant and filling up with water will result in you eating less.

I've gotten into the habit of drinking a full liter of water every morning as soon as I get up. If keeps me hydrated throughout the day even if I do drink coffee or alcohol. If I am drinking that night, I'll make sure to chug another 1/2 to 1 liter of filtered water before bedtime. And during the day, I'll make sure to drink another glass or two every few hours to keep me from getting thirsty. Get into the habit of it and you'll see the benefits in no time.