There's no question that when it comes to thirst, water is the ultimate drink. Our bodies depend on water to function; it cools us down, helps our skin, lubricates our joints and muscles and keeps our oral hygiene in check.
If we don't drink enough water, we are at risk of dehydration, which can lead to short-term and long-term health problems.
Children should be drinking water every day, especially when they have been steadily active. If you're going out of the house, make sure to always pack a water bottle for the kids to sip on, or give them a glass of water with each meal. Most importantly, make it a point to enjoy a glass of H20 with them.
Although drinking plain water is equally as delicious, you can add a little something special to make drinking water more fun for kids:
- Add a citrus wedge (lemon/lime/orange/grapefruit)
- Use different shaped ice-cubes
- Add "fresh fruit" ice cubes
And here's a few tips to "jazz" up drinking water for parents:
- Add a sprig of fresh mint
- Grate some ginger
- Toss in a couple of slices of cucumber
- Add a citrus wedge (lemon/lime/orange/grapefruit)
Find out more information from The Heart & Stroke Foundation and Dieticians of Canada