Do you drink enough water? Chances are you don’t, because research indicates that around 75 per cent of Australians are chronically dehydrated.[1]

Even mild dehydration can cause side effects that interfere with our daily lives. For example, not drinking enough water can lead to fatigue, headaches, irritability and constipation. [2]

Many people don’t drink water because they don’t like the taste of it. So we’ve come up with some easy ways to put the zing back into the humble glass of water.

1. Add fruit

Adding fruit is one of the quickest and easiest ways to add flavour to your water. Add a squeeze of fruit juice, or fill your water jug with sliced fruit and refrigerate. Try mashing up berries and topping with sparkling water and ice-cubes, or freeze slices of fruit and use them as ice-cubes. Fruit turns plain water into a perfectly refreshing treat on a hot summer’s day.

2. Make tea

There are a range of different herbal teas and blends on the market; blends to relax you and blends that’ll invigorate you. Experiment with a few to discover which flavour works for you. Drink it hot, or refrigerate and add ice to make an iced tea.

3. Add herbs

Herbs can pack a punch and so can be a perfect addition to a jug of ice-cold water. Mint or lemon thyme is very refreshing. Why not leave crushed basil leaves or coriander to infuse overnight? Or try ginger and lemongrass. You’re really only limited by your imagination.

4. Try veggies

You may be surprised at how much flavour veggies can give your glass of water. Slices of cucumber can add subtle flair, as can veggies like celery or tomato. You can even keep the water you used to boil veggies and refrigerate overnight for a vitamin-packed flavour sensation.

5. Add flowers

Pretty flowers can make a lovely addition to any dish, including water! Adding rose petals or lavender can turn a boring glass of water into a luxurious, soothing drink.

6. Mix diet drinks

Don’t forget that splash of diet cordial or diet soft drink can add a bit of extra flavour without all the calories. There’s such a wide variety of flavours available so you’re bound to find something you love.

7. Add essences

Essences are not just for cooking. Adding lemon, coconut or even orange essence to your glass of water can really ramp things up. Essences and flavourings are available in the baking section of your supermarket.

With a bit of imagination, you can turn a plain glass of water into a taste sensation and, more importantly, quench that thirst!

Experience the Zip Effect. It’s easy to drink more and improve your wellbeing with fresh, filtered water on tap.

References:

 [1] Blue Planet, Water Facts; published not specified; accessed 19 September, 2015

www.blueplanet.nsw.edu.au

[2] Mayo Clinic, Dehydration: Symptoms; last updated 12 February 2014; accessed 19 September 2015,

www.mayoclinic.org

[3] Ibid.