Hate Drinking Water? Here’s How to Stay Hydrated Anyway (Naturally!)

Published On: 15/07/2025

Hate Drinking Water?
Not a fan of plain water? No worries—there are several natural, science-backed ways to stay hydrated without constantly sipping from a bottle. Here’s what actually works.

Table of Contents

Why I Needed Alternatives

I’ll be real with you—there are days when I just can’t stomach another glass of water. Maybe it’s the taste (or lack of it), or I’m too busy to keep refilling my bottle. Living in the UK, where rainy days can trick you into thinking you’re fine hydration-wise, I’ve learned the hard way that skipping water can leave me tired and headachy. So, I started looking for other ways to stay hydrated, and it turns out you can do it without chugging H2O all day. Here’s what’s worked for me, and maybe it’ll help you too if you’re in a similar spot.

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What I Figured Out

I used to think water was the only way to stay hydrated, but our bodies can get moisture from food and other drinks too. The key is picking things that don’t dehydrate you more—like avoiding too much caffeine or sugar. After some experimenting, I found a few tricks that keep me going, especially on those days when water feels like a chore.

1. Load Up on Fruits and Veggies

I started eating more cucumber, celery, and strawberries. They’re mostly water—cucumber is like 95%—and they taste good too. I’ll slice some up for a snack or toss them in a salad. It’s an easy way to sneak in hydration without thinking about it.

2. Sip Herbal Teas

On cold mornings, I’ll make a mug of peppermint or rooibos tea. It’s warm, soothing, and counts toward my fluid intake without the caffeine kick of regular tea. I keep a stash at work for those long afternoons when I forget to drink.

3. Eat Soups or Broths

A bowl of veggie soup or chicken broth has become my lunchtime go-to. It’s warm, filling, and packed with water. Even a simple homemade broth with some herbs does the trick when I’m feeling parched but not up for plain water.

4. Grab Some Yogurt or Milk

I’ve started having a small bowl of plain yogurt with fruit or a glass of milk with my breakfast. They’ve got water and nutrients like calcium, and the creaminess feels more satisfying than water sometimes. It’s a nice switch-up.

5. Snack on Watermelon or Oranges

When I’m craving something sweet, I reach for watermelon or an orange. They’re juicy, refreshing, and full of water—plus, they give me a little vitamin boost. I keep them handy for a quick bite between meetings.

6. Try Coconut Water or Fruit-Infused Drinks

If I’m out and about, I’ll grab a coconut water or make a pitcher of water with cucumber and mint at home. It’s not plain water, but it hydrates and tastes better, so I’m more likely to drink it.

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What I Steered Clear Of

I learned to skip sugary sodas or too much coffee. They might feel good at first, but they can dehydrate you if you overdo it. I also avoid chugging anything ice-cold right away—it can upset my stomach, so I let it sit a bit.

How I Make It Work

I don’t follow a strict plan. Some days, it’s a bowl of soup at lunch and an orange later. Other times, I sip tea all morning and snack on cucumber. It’s about fitting it into my day naturally. Takes maybe an extra five minutes to prep, but I feel better for it.

Why Not Try It?

If water’s not your thing, pick one or two of these and see how you go. Start with something easy like a piece of fruit or a warm broth. It’s helped me stay on top of hydration without forcing down glasses of water.

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Little Tips That Help

Keep fruit in the fridge for a cool snack.
Carry a small thermos of herbal tea.
Watch for dry lips or tiredness—they’re signs to hydrate.

My Two Cents

Staying hydrated doesn’t have to mean guzzling water all day. These swaps have kept me feeling good, even on my busiest days. Give them a go and let me know what sticks for you!