HOME / HEALTH & BEAUTY / HEALTHY TIPS
HOME / HEALTH & BEAUTY / HEALTHY TIPS
BY ELM JOURNALISTS
MAY/2025
We all know water is essential — but let’s be honest: sometimes it just feels… boring. While a clear glass of water remains the gold standard for hydration, it’s far from the only way to keep your body refreshed and functioning at its best.
Hydration is a pillar of wellness. It supports digestion, promotes healthy skin, boosts energy, and improves cognitive function. But if you struggle to meet your daily water intake, don't worry — there are countless flavorful, nourishing, and enjoyable ways to hydrate beyond the water bottle.
Let’s explore 8 inspiring alternatives that make hydration both effortless and exciting.
Yes, you can eat your way to better hydration! Many fruits and vegetables have high water content, offering fluids along with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Top Hydrating Foods:
Cucumbers (96% water) – Crisp and refreshing, perfect for salads or snacking.
Watermelon (92%) – Juicy, sweet, and aptly named.
Strawberries (91%) – Great in smoothies, cereals, or straight from the fridge.
Celery (95%) – Crunchy, low-calorie, and hydrating.
Romaine and iceberg lettuce – Great base for a fluid-rich meal.
Make it a habit to include at least one high-water-content food in every meal or snack.
Herbal teas offer flavor and function. Since most are caffeine-free, they hydrate without any of the diuretic effects of coffee or black tea.
Great Herbal Options:
Peppermint tea – Cooling and great for digestion.
Chamomile – Relaxing and perfect for nighttime.
Hibiscus – Tart, colorful, and packed with antioxidants.
Rooibos – Nutty, naturally sweet, and caffeine-free.
Enjoy your herbal tea hot or iced. Add lemon slices, honey, or herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra twist.
If plain water feels repetitive, infused water is your flavorful upgrade. You’ll not only enjoy new tastes but also add subtle nutrients and antioxidants.
Delicious Infusion Ideas:
Cucumber + lemon + mint
Orange slices + basil
Strawberry + lime
Apple + cinnamon sticks
Let the mixture chill for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. Keep a pretty glass pitcher nearby to encourage frequent sips.
Coconut water is nature’s electrolyte drink — low in calories, rich in potassium, and naturally sweet.
When to Choose It:
After workouts
On hot days
To combat fatigue or mild dehydration
It’s a healthier option compared to many sports drinks loaded with artificial colors and sugars. Just be mindful of the natural sugar content if you're watching your intake.
Hydration can be warm, savory, and satisfying. Enter soups and broths.
Try These:
Bone broth – Packed with collagen and minerals.
Vegetable broth – Light, nutrient-rich, and vegan-friendly.
Cold gazpacho – A Spanish favorite during summer.
Miso soup – Great for gut health and hydration.
Soups are a smart way to hydrate, especially if you’re sick, recovering from exercise, or just want a cozy meal.
Smoothies hydrate while delivering fruits, veggies, fiber, and healthy fats in one delicious blend.
Hydrating Smoothie Recipe:
1 cup watermelon chunks
½ cucumber
Handful of spinach
Juice of ½ lime
1 cup coconut water
Ice cubes
Blend and enjoy a cool, energizing hydration boost.
Sometimes it's not about what you drink, but how you remember to hydrate. Here are a few mindful hydration habits to adopt:
Start your day with a glass of water or tea
Set hourly reminders to sip
Use a water tracking app or marked bottle
Eat hydrating snacks (like grapes or oranges)
Make hydration part of your daily self-care rituals — like brushing your teeth or journaling.
Both dairy milk and plant-based alternatives (almond, oat, soy) can support hydration — especially when used in smoothies, cereals, or simply sipped on their own.
Bonus: Some offer protein, calcium, and vitamin D — giving you more than just hydration with every glass.
Staying hydrated isn’t a boring health chore — it’s an act of daily care. Whether you choose juicy fruits, herbal teas, or a refreshing smoothie, every sip and bite brings your body closer to balance.
So next time you feel tired, foggy, or thirsty, remember: hydration can be vibrant, creative, and full of flavor.
Live well. Sip mindfully. Hydrate with joy.
PAGES YOU MAY LIKE