Ever since I got to college, I found myself more dependent on sugar-rotted items, like candy and soda, and seemingly have pulled away from attempting to have a healthy lifestyle. Like most people, I am terrible at drinking water, I’d much rather drink something with a little bit of sugar in it or not as “bland”, like a mountain dew, fruit punch, or Gatorade. And going to a school that offers more unhealthy drink options, it was just so “convenient”. From the beginning of the semester to the end, I have gotten so much worse with my water drinking habits; and I’m probably not the only one either. With the vending machines in our dorms, to the wide array of soda options at the cafeteria, we’re in a sugary drink paradise. And not only did I see that in my health, like my constant acne breakouts, but I also saw it in my performance at school as well. This is surprising because I didn’t even know the impact water had on my life like that.
However, it is scientifically proven that water is just “better”. It provides a series of benefits too: weight loss; productivity; increased mood; better-looking skin; and more. Water is 70% of your body weight, and you need it to survive. So let’s start showing more appreciation for our renewable source.
So, to try something new this week I made water my best friend. I drank water this entire week. With every single meal, to practice, and even for fun. Scientists recommend 15.5 cups of water for men, and 11.5 cups for women. So I attempted to drink the recommended amount per day. And just like I expected, within a day, I already started to notice a difference.
I started seeing a few pimples on my face reduce to almost nothing; I woke up in the morning feeling non-drowsy; I felt motivated, and despite the overwhelming feeling of finals week coming up I felt happy. Although it might take a little more willpower in me to pull away from the more sugary drinks, I definitely recommend it, and here are some ways for you also to make water your best friend.
1. Infuse your drinks with fruits to try and Add Taste to your water
2. Dilute your sugary drinks. For Example, add water to your fruit punch or your lemonade
3. Download an App that helps you track your intake
4. if you want something carbonated try Sparkling water instead
5. Snack on Salty Stuff that makes you crave drinking water
6. Set Alarms to make you drink water till you make it a habit
7. Drink it with every meal
8. Try alternatives like Caffeine-free tea (Which is still considered water)
9. Make it fun: Try and make it a game
10. Get Active
Listen, guys. It works! And I’m not the only one to attest to it either. Drinking water and staying hydrated is essential for your health, but of course, it can be a struggle; so use these recommendations. Put that coca-cola, Pepsi, or lemonade down and pick up a bottle of water. I promise it’ll change your life.