• f you were stuck on a deserted island, the first thing you would think of bringing would be water, right? For some, this life-saving liquid may not be their first option as a source of hydration.

    As mentioned by President Cyril Ramaphosa in his State of the Nation Address for 2022, water is the country’s – and the world’s – most precious natural resource.

    It can do so much for your body such as regulate your body temperature, carry nutrients and oxygen to cells, and moisten tissues in the eyes, nose and mouth, lists the health publication Mayo Clinic.

    “Nearly all of your body’s major systems depend on water to function and survive. With water making up about 60% of your body weight, it’s no surprise what staying hydrated can do for you,” adds the above-mentioned health hub.

    No matter how precious it is, the hydrating drink is most definitely an acquired taste.

    If you fall under the category of disliking the taste of water and need a few alternatives, check out the list below.

    Eat fruits and veggies with high water contents

    Hint of Healthy – a portal that provides an array of healthy recipes – lists the following of nature’s goodness to be substituted for a glass of water:

    • Cucumbers
    • Oranges
    • Watermelon
    • Celery
    • Tomatoes
    • Lettuce
    • Strawberries
    • Peaches

    Drink a smoothie

    “Smoothies are great for hydration; depending on what you add, they can stand in for a solid snack or meal,” shares Food Network.

    Have some soup

    There is plenty of liquid in soups. Hint of Healthy suggests that you consume creamy, smooth soups or chunky soups with meat and vegetables.

    Add fruits and herbs to ice cubes

    Add some colour to those bland blocks of water! The cable channel Food Network suggests adding berries or herbs, like mint and rosemary. “Aside from helping with hydration, this also helps to add subtle notes of flavour to your drinks.”

    Fancy a cup of tea?

    “Teas and herbal blends are a fun way to flavour water,” says Food Network. “Just brew a few bags of your favourite tea in a large pot of water, allow to cool and pour into a pitcher.”

    ALSO SEE: The health benefits of drinking lemon water

    The health benefits of drinking lemon water

    Feature image: Pexels

    Article originally written and published by Jade Rhode for Bona Magazine