8 Hydration Tips That Actually Make A Difference
We’ve all heard the generic “drink 8 glasses of water a day,” but let’s be real. That advice is played out and kind of vague. Hydration isn't just about chugging water. It's about how, when, and what you’re drinking. Whether you're trying to level up your health, skin, energy, or just not feel like a dry raisin by 3pm, here are hydration tips that'll keep you feeling good all day
2/14/20252 min read
1. Start Your Morning with Water, Not Coffee
Your body goes 6–8 hours without water while you sleep, so it will wake up dehydrated, even if you feel fine. Drinking water first thing helps get your digestion going, supports your organs, and wakes you up better than coffee ever could.
Tip: Try adding a pinch of sea salt and a squeeze of lemon. It gives your body some natural electrolytes and minerals to start the day right.
2. Don’t Wait Until You’re Thirsty
If you’re already thirsty, you’re already behind. Thirst is your body’s way of throwing up a red flag. Staying ahead of it with small sips throughout the day keeps your energy more steady and your brain working better.
Keep a water bottle within arm’s reach at all time, whether that be at your desk, in the car, by your bed. If it’s in sight, you’re way more likely to sip without even thinking about it.
3. Eat Your Water
Hydration doesn’t just come from what you drink. A lot of fruits and veggies are packed with water too. Things like cucumber, watermelon, oranges, strawberries, and celery are all low effort ways to boost hydration and get some nutrients in. This helps with digestion, keep you full longer, and your skin will also thank you.
4. Go Easy on Diuretics
Coffee, energy drinks, and alcohol all act as diuretics. That means they make you lose water faster. You don’t need to cut them out completely but you should balance them with extra hydration.
Tip: For every coffee or alcoholic drink, have a glass of water to match it
5. Use a Water Tracker or Reminder
Life gets busy. You don’t need to obsess but having a little reminder can help you stay consistent without thinking too hard about it
Try apps like Plant Nanny or Waterllama or just set a repeating alarm every couple of hours.
6. Pay Attention to Your Pee (Yeah, Seriously)
It’s not the most glamorous tip but your pee is a solid indicator of how hydrated you are.
Light yellow means you're good
Dark yellow or amber means drink up
Crystal clear means maybe a bit too much water ease up a little
7. Hydrate Before Bed (But Not Too Much)
A small glass of water before bed helps keep your body hydrated overnight. Especially if you’ve had a drink worked out late or it’s hot out. Just don’t go overboard unless you want to be up for a 3 am bathroom run