This week we’re going to tackle a more difficult change. This is actually one of the hardest changes I’ve overcome so far. While it may be difficult, drinking more water is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Water not only keeps you hydrated, but it also helps remove cholesterol from your body. That’s all well and good, right? But, let’s be serious. Water can taste boring. That’s the main reason many people hold onto their diet sodas for dear life. It doesn’t have to be this way though. There are easy ways to drink more water.

When I first started drinking more water, I was extremely bored with the taste. This led me to seek out flavored waters or items that I could add to my water. I became a huge fan of powders that could be added to a 16.9 ounce water bottle. They had great flavor and no calories. I also loved carbonated, flavored water, because it was like drinking soda. Any of these options are a great way to add more water to your diet. Another great option is tea. Green and white teas are not only tasty, but they’re extremely healthy as well. Both varieties help with weight loss, and white tea is high in antioxidants.

While you can drink flavored waters and tea, the less your water has in it, the healthier it is. When your water is pure, it’s easier for your kidneys to process. Try drinking a couple glasses of plain water each day. After a few days, add another glass. Believe it or not, as you drink more water, you’ll actually begin to crave it. But, if the taste is too plain, add lemon or lime juice.

Here are a few last tips to remember. Water doesn’t have to be served in a glass. There are hidden sources of water. For example, watermelon is 80 percent water. And, if you still need a daily soda, drink it at the end of the day as a reward for drinking 8 glasses of water.

Also remember to keep the world green by buying a reusable water bottle.