25/06/2025
One of the most important, but perhaps most under-recognised aspects of maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle is hydration. So why are so many of us spending most of our time dehydrated, yet not even aware of it?
Our bodies are complex and incredible, with so many different bodily functions happening simultaneously. Water is essential for those normal functions to work. Water helps keep your joints lubricated, helps you maintain a stable temperature, and aids your body in eliminating waste. The key thing to remember is that, throughout the day, your body uses and gets rid of water, so you need to constantly replace it.
Habits to help you drink more
• Set reminders: Use phone alarms or apps to remind you to drink regularly, especially if thirst isn’t a reliable signal due to medication or your condition.
• Flavour your water: Add lemon, cucumber, or mint if plain water doesn’t appeal to you.
• Buy a new water bottle: Stainless steel or glass, as opposed to plastic, are the best ones to go for. Some have straws, some keep your water cool for hours – whatever you’re drawn to, treating yourself as this one, simple step is a very effective trigger to remind you to drink more (and to bring your bottle with you wherever you go).
• Track your intake: Keep a daily log or use a hydration tracker app. Habit Tracker, WaterMinder or Hydro Coach are all popular apps that can help you to keep track of your fluid intake, and to motivate you to drink more.
• Hydrating foods: Did you know that some foods contain a high proportion of water? Include foods like cucumbers, melons, and soups to up your fluid intake.
• Try herbal teas: If you haven’t tried herbal teas recently, now might be a good time to give them a go again. These drinks contain no caffeine, so won’t interfere with your sleep, and are the perfect thing to have in the office when you want a ‘water cooler break’ but you don’t like drinking cold water. They’re also great in the evening as you unwind, post-dinner. Try chamomile, mint, or different combinations that are sold as ‘relax’ or ‘rejuvenate’ teas.
• Check your medications: Some medications can increase water loss, so you may need to drink more to compensate – ask your rheumatologist, advanced nurse practitioner or your pharmacist about this.