What to drink if I don’t like water?

Water is essential for maintaining good health, but not everyone enjoys its neutral taste. Fortunately, there are equally hydrating and delicious alternatives, such as herbal teas and infusions, that combine hydration with sensory pleasure.

In this article, the registered dietitians from ÉquipeNutrition explain why hydration is crucial, the recommended daily intake, and how herbal teas can become your best ally for drinking more throughout the day.

The Importance of Hydration: Key Benefits of Staying Hydrated Every Day

Hydration plays a key role in the body's proper functioning. It helps regulate body temperature, supports digestion, lubricates joints, and promotes healthy skin. According to Health Canada, adults generally need about 2 litres of fluids per day—or 1 ml per calorie—including water, herbal teas, juices, and water-rich foods (1). However, individual needs may vary based on several factors.

Herbal Tea: The Perfect Customizable Hydration Solution for Your Well-being

If plain water isn’t your first choice, herbal tea is an excellent alternative for several reasons:

Versatile and Delicious

Whether you crave a hot drink to warm up in winter or a refreshing iced infusion in summer, herbal tea adapts to every season. Plus, there’s a wide range of flavors, from fruity and woody notes to floral and tangy aromas. At Floèm, you’ll find herbal teas to suit every taste.

Calorie-Free and Natural

Unlike sugary drinks, our herbal teas are made from natural ingredients with no added flavors or sugars, making them completely calorie-free. They’re a great way to stay hydrated without affecting your energy balance while enjoying their natural benefits. Additionally, Diabetes Canada recommends that Canadians choose water as their go-to beverage to reduce sugar intake, as refined sugar impacts blood glucose levels.

Easy to Prepare and Take on the Go

Herbal tea can be brewed in minutes and stored in a reusable bottle for all-day hydration. You can even prepare a large pitcher the night before for a refreshing drink ready to enjoy throughout the day. Check out our article on different infusion techniques.

A Wellness Gift

Herbal tea is not just a pleasure to sip—it also makes a thoughtful gift. Enjoying a cup of herbal tea is a moment of relaxation, a well-deserved break. Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth after meals? Some herbal blends can help curb cravings while reducing your intake of store-bought desserts.

Understanding Who Needs More Water and Why: Key Factors Affecting Hydration

Certain situations or health conditions require special attention to hydration. For example:

• Athletes: During intense physical activity, the body loses a significant amount of fluid through sweat. Proper hydration before, during, and after exercise is essential.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Water needs increase to support bodily changes. Naître et grandir highlights the importance of listening to thirst, which naturally increases during breastfeeding. According to Health Canada, citrus peel, ginger, and rosehip herbal teas are considered safe during pregnancy, as long as consumption is limited to 2-3 cups per day.
• Older adults: As we age, the sensation of thirst may decrease. Regular hydration is crucial to prevent dehydration.
• Hot weather conditions: On warm days, the body sweats more, requiring increased fluid intake to maintain hydration balance.

Herbal tea is a simple, delicious, and natural way to stay hydrated while enjoying its wellness benefits.

Stay Hydrated Naturally with Beneficial Herbal Teas

In summary, if drinking plain water feels challenging, herbal tea can be a great way to stay hydrated while enjoying a variety of flavors. Floèm offers a selection of herbal teas for every taste and time of day, made with natural ingredients sourced from northern meadows and forests.

Top Tips for Staying Hydrated: How to Achieve Optimal Hydration Daily

The nutritionists at ÉquipeNutrition can help you develop a simple, personalized, and effective hydration routine that fits seamlessly into your daily life. Book an appointment with a registered dietitian today and discover solutions tailored to your lifestyle!

Sources:

1. Government of Canada. (2022). Keep your health afloat by staying hydrated. Department of National Defence. [Link]

2. Diabetes Canada. (2020). Position Statement: Sugar. [Link]

3. IRBMS. (n.d.). Hydration and physical effort. [Link]

4. Naître et grandir. (n.d.). Nutrition during breastfeeding. [Link]

5. Government of Canada. (n.d.). Healthy pregnancy guide. Public Health Agency of Canada. [Link]