Smart Strategies For Staying Hydrated This Winter

During winter, be sure to drink up — and we don't mean those sugary, caffeinated beverages like eggnog lattes and hot chocolate, which pack a lot of calories and can seriously stand in the way of hydration. If the idea of a big glass of ice water becomes unappealing during the cold-weather months, find ways to sneak some H₂O into your regular routine. To get you started, we've compiled a list of some of the best (and sneakiest) ways to trick yourself into drinking and retaining more water during the winter months. Follow these tips and you'll be replenished in no time!

If you're planning on hitting the slopes this winter, Dr. Holsworth says to keep in mind that higher elevations have an effect on the way our bodies process water. He recommends a quart more water per day than usual. 

If you suffer from dry skin in the winter, according to Dr. Holsworth, you probably need to increase your fluid intake. Supple skin is a byproduct of staying hydrated. 

Pick chicken noodle over the bisque. Registered dietician Tori Holthaus of Yes! Nutrition says that broth-based soups have fewer calories and are even hydrating, thanks to the water in the broth. Vegetable, lentil, and minestrone soup are all smart choices. 

Instead of chugging coffee or a calorie-heavy hot chocolate to stay warm this winter, Holthaus recommends herbal tea instead. The hot water will help keep you hydrated and the antioxidant properties in the herbs can help prevent cell damage. 

Dr. Holsworth says that his patients complain that chilled water just isn't appealing come winter. He recommends warming up water and steeping fruit slices and cinnamon sticks to make plain water festive and seasonally appropriate. 

Holthaus says that since most fruits and veggies are 90-percent water, just trying to eat five servings of produce a day can really have an impact on your hydration. 

Sure, it can be a drag lugging a giant bottle of water everywhere this winter, but Dr. Holsworth says that to stay hydrated, you should really be drinking constantly. Invest in a backpack with a bottle holder or a compact, refillable bottle. 

Okay, so a banana doesn't really seem like a cold-weather food, but Holthaus says that potassium helps transport water throughout your body. Kale, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes can also help you get the potassium you need.

Two liters (about 68 ounces) of water a day should be a daily goal for women and men should aim for two and a half liters (about 85 ounces), according to Dr. Ralph E. Holsworth. Fill bottles of water at night and sip them throughout the day so you can see your progress. 

Alcohol makes it harder for your body to oxygenate, says Dr. Holsworth, which means that you'll perspire a little more than normal. If you do drink, he recommends drinking a glass (eight ounces) of water with each alcoholic beverage you consume — this also helps prevent hangovers.