We all know drinking water is essential for good health and that dehydration can lead to headaches, muscle cramps, dry skin, fatigue, and other, more serious problems. Unfortunately, between hectic daily schedules and lack of break time, it can often be a struggle to drink enough water. Following these tips can help make staying hydrated easier and feel less like a chore. 

Hydrate to Begin the Day
Start your day off by drinking a glass of water as soon as you wake up, or drink a glass as part of your morning routine—for instance, while you are waiting for coffee to brew.  

Drink Every Time You Eat
Another way to remind yourself to drink enough water is to make a point to drink a glass every time you eat a meal. You can also try drinking before you have a snack. Sometimes you may feel hungry when you are actually dehydrated, so this may help you eat less, too.  

Carry Water with You
You are more likely to drink water if you already have it with you instead of breaking away from work to visit a water fountain or buy a bottle of water. You can even purchase water bottles that track how much water you drink to stay on target with your goals.  

Eat Your Way to Hydration
Drinking is not the only way you can stay hydrated. You can also absorb water through the food you eat. Try adding foods with a high percentage of water to your diet, such as cantaloupe, strawberries, spinach, watermelon, peaches, bell peppers, and cucumbers. 

Add Some Flavor
If you get tired of the taste (or lack thereof) of water, add some flavor. Try dropping some fruit in your water to give it a little kick. Good options include lemon slices, strawberries, cucumbers, or blueberries. You can even freeze the fruit and use it as ice cubes. 

Turn to Technology
Download a hydration app on your smartphone to keep you on track. There are a variety of different apps that can help you create goals, set reminders, and keep track of how much water you have consumed.  

Avoid Drinks That Dehydrate 
Staying hydrated isn’t only about how much water you are drinking. Some drinks actually work against this goal. Try to avoid or cut back on consuming alcohol, sugary drinks, and caffeine. These contain sugar, sodium, and other ingredients than can deplete the water from your body.