Don’t like the taste of water? Here’s how to meet your new daily requirements

Whilst doctors used to recommend drinking eight glasses of water each day, the American Institute of Medicine has now increased these guidelines even further! Here are simple ways to ensure you’re reaching the new daily intake.

Doctors now believe that men should drink 15 cups of water, whilst women should have 11 cups daily. Water has limitless health benefits but the truth is, many of us simply don’t like its taste!

Your body is composed of about 60% water, and it’s critical for proper digestion, circulation, brain and organ function. Water can also prevent weight gain, reduce disease within your liver and kidneys, and energise your muscles.

Therefore, you can embrace H20 with these simple ideas:

1. Add a slice of fruit

If water seems too bland for you, try adding a slice of lemon, lime or even strawberry to your glass. This will give H20 a fruity flavour and make it more palatable for regular drinking.

2. Buy yourself a water bottle

It sounds straight-forward, but having a water bottle that you take out and about will encourage you to stay hydrated. Having small sips of water throughout the day will contribute to your overall intake.

3. Get fluid from fruit and vegetables

About 20% of our water intake is derived from food, so you can get extra fluids by eating well. Green vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and cucumber contain a high amount of water. Likewise, fruits such as apples and pears are over 80% water.

4. Try decaffeinated drinks

Green teas and herbal teas can be very hydrating, and don’t contain too much caffeine. People who don’t like the taste of water could try supplanting cold beverages with these hotter options.

5. Set yourself reminders

There are several great smartphone apps which can remind you when to have a glass of water. “My Water Balance” and “Water Alert” are both available for free in the iPhone App Store.

6. Change your daily habits

The best way to improve your drinking habits, of course, is to simply embrace the change. Each morning, have a glass of water ready by your bedside to drink when you wake up. Then ensure you have at least two glasses of water with every meal too.

Do you drink enough water? Are you surprised by these new medical guidelines? How do you stay hydrated, even in this current heat?