4 Tips Guaranteed to Get You Drinking More Water

The numbers speak for themselves – no sugar, no sodium, no cholesterol, and no fat. Water is amazing, isn’t it? Sodas and other high-sugar processed drinks are full of calories that can lead to weight gain. Water not only keeps you hydrated but also aids in digestion, makes you feel fuller, and flushes out toxins. It can even boost your energy levels. With water, the glass is always at least half full.

But, some people struggle to drink enough water each day. Can’t seem to consume your daily recommended amount of water? These four tips can help.

Add flavor to your H2O. Water can be bland. Instead of buying a chemical-filled flavor enhancer at the store, add natural flavors from your own kitchen. If you’re not a fan of the classics like lemon or orange, fill your bottle with some sliced cucumbers, strawberries and even fresh herbs. Muddling your herbs with a wooden spoon also helps to both unlock, and enhance, flavor.

Get a new water bottle. If you like the convenience of bottled water, you can save time, money and the environment by investing in a re-usable water bottle. We personally like stainless steel water bottles. They’re easy to clean, better for your health than plastic bottles (no BPA or other harmful chemicals) and come in a variety of fun colors and designs. Your new gear will encourage you to drink more water and also make a stylish statement!

Keep it close. Leave your water bottle in plain sight so you’re always reminded to drink up. When you’re on the go, toss your water bottle in your purse, gym bag or car. At work, place your water bottle at arm’s reach. This’ll provide a visual cue to drink more water. Because it’s in your line of sight, you’ll pick it up more often and drink more throughout the day.

Join HAP’s H2O Go Challenge. Throughout August, we’re challenging you to drink at least six glasses of water per day. A glass is measured as 8 ounces. You can track your progress against other challenge participants. The best part? You’ll have a chance to win a $50 gift card* as a reward for your healthy choices. The challenge starts August 1, 2017. Register today!

How to participate:

• Register or sign in at hap.org/istriveworksite, and click “H2O Go Challenge” on the iStrive® for Better Health home page.
• Each day, record “Yes” or “No” to drinking at least 6 glasses of water. You must log in to record your totals for at least 21 of 31 days.
• Post at least once to the message board.
• At the end of the challenge, on August 31, you’ll be entered to win one of 20 gift cards worth $50 each.*

Have questions? Contact wellness@hap.org for additional information.

*The H2O Go Challenge is not available for Medicare or HAP Midwest members at this time.