Did you know that the human body is made up of around 70% water? Which explains why it’s so important to drink plenty, particularly during warmer weather and when you’re being active. Six to eight mugs or glasses per day will help you stay hydrated and healthy. If you’re thinking that sounds like a lot of liquid, don’t worry – these tips will help you keep topped up!
Jazz up your H2O
Pep up plain water by infusing it with other things. You can buy ready-made infusion bags or create your own combinations at home. Citrus fruits, berries, cucumber slices and even some herbs and spices will add splashings of flavour.
More for members: Try our cocktail of infused-water ideas here
Mix up your sips
If you’re not a big fan of water, any type of fluid counts (except alcohol, sorry!). So still or sparkling flavoured waters, teas (including fruit tea), coffee, milk, fizzy drinks, fruit juice and squashes will all help to keep us hydrated.
Fruit tea, regular tea and coffee and sugar-free drinks are Free on the Food Optimising plan, so you can enjoy them without worrying that they could affect your weight loss. Other drinks, like sugary fizzy drinks and fruit juices, can still be enjoyed as part of the plan – Slimming World members can use the food search tool on the app and website, or our handy barcode scanner, to check their Syn values as they shop.
Make it a habit
Is there a way to incorporate topping up your fluids into your routine? Could you head to the water cooler or kitchen whenever you have a break at work, grab a bottle when you’re heading out to walk the dog or do the school run, or enjoy delicious drinks while you’re relaxing in the evening? Making it a habit is the key to keeping up any kind of healthy change long-term.
Use a measured drinking bottle
Getting up to fill your glass is great for adding extra movement to your day – if you struggle to remember, though, using a measured drinking bottle could help. Having that visual reminder can spur you on to keep sipping – and if your bottle’s big enough you can take your recommended daily intake with you, wherever you go.
Slimming World nutritionist Evie Lovell tells us more about water and weight loss: