Hydration and healthier beverages
Water is very important to our bodies, but just how important is it? Water makes up over 50% of an adult’s body and it plays an important role in your body’s function. Most of us know that we need to stay hydrated, but not all beverages are created equal.1
Water facts
- 80% of people’s water intake comes from drinking water.
- 20% of people’s water intake comes from food.

Why do we need water?
Drinking water is important to your health.3
- Water helps the body keep your temperature normal
- Water rids the body of waste
- Water protects the spinal cord
How much fluid should I drink?
- Women should drink about 11.5 cups of fluid or 92 ounces daily.
- Men should drink about 15.5 cups of fluid or 124 ounces daily.
Signs of dehydration
Watch for these signs that may mean you're dehydrated.5
- Thirst
- Dry, cool skin
- Dry or sticky mouth
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
- Dark yellow urine or not urinating much
Preventing dehydration
- Fill that water bottle — don’t rely on beverages with caffeine or alcohol for hydration.
- Take extra care in the heat — increase fluid intake in hot weather.
- Change it up — add some fruit to your water for variety.
Check the label for hidden sweeteners
Many beverages include sweeteners that go by several different names.6 In order to know if you are drinking a sugar-sweetened beverage, be on the lookout for these ingredients:
-
High fructose corn syrup
-
Fructose
-
Fruit juice concentrates
-
Honey
-
Sugar
-
Syrup
-
Corn syrup
-
Sucrose
-
Dextrose
Fun ways to flavor your water
Make a splash with your water — it's easy!
- No recipe to follow — quantities of fruit and other flavorings can vary based on taste and what you have on hand.
- Mix and match — whether it’s a full pitcher or just a glass. Get creative and enjoy!

Freeze your fruit
Add frozen berries for flavor and color or freeze pureed fruit or 100% juice in ice cube trays.
- Berries
- Mangos
- Melons

Squeeze in citrus
Cut fruit into wedges or slices — or just splash the juice in.
- Lemons
- Limes
- Oranges

Go herbal
Add unique flavors with chopped or whole herbs and spices.
- Mint
- Ginger
- Basil
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