Tips for Staying Hydrated During the Holidays

The holiday season is here and with it comes an abundance of food, drink, guilt, and judgmental questions from relatives and in-laws alike. Dealing with the fourth round of Are you seeing anyone? Oh, well. That’s okay… or fielding inquiries about your career (under the guise of “concern”) can send anyone running to the bar or the cookie jar. But we #EndoBabes need to monitor our consumption because dehydration is a bitch, especially for those who have a chronic illness.

Dehydration can bring about low blood pressure, urinary problems (which is already a side effect of Endo, so why make it worse?), and in some severe cases, seizures. To avoid igniting a flare-up (and irritating an already outrageous hangover), try these tips to stay hydrated.

Opt for a sexier alternative, like coconut water.

The easiest and fastest way to replenish your water levels is by drinking water. (Duh.) But did you know that up to 60 percent of meat is also water? A salad filled with grilled chicken, fruits, and veggies isn’t just good for your health, but it can help with your hydration deficit, too. Rule of thumb: The more colorful a salad is, the better it is for you (usually).

Let’s be honest here – water itself is pretty boring. And for those who live in an area where the water just doesn’t taste good or is it isn’t even safe to drink, an alternative is necessary. If this is the case for you, try coconut water, decaffeinated teas, or even milk. Certain sports drinks can also do the trick, as can fruit juices. But pay attention to the label. Many fruit juices are basically straight sugar. And stay away from soda, as that can actually dehydrate you even more. Coffee is also (unfortunately) considered a dehydrating drink, but if you’re like me and live on it, at least try to use a healthier alternative to creamer, like coconut oil or milk.

There are ways of spicing up your regular ole’ water, too, of course. You could infuse your morning swig with watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, or lemons. (Some people even add mint leaves to their water.) Not into mint? Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice to the mix.

Download a hydration app.

There are a plethora of apps on the market specifically designed to make the act of drinking more water feel like it’s part of a game. (Crazy, right?) Some of these apps will even allow you to donate to a charity of your choice once you’ve hit your goal. Just be sure to do your research and find out the apps’ true intentions are before you sign up. I use Plant Nanny, which sends me reminders to drink water and to water my virtual plant at 9 a.m., noon, 5 p.m., and again at 9 p.m.

When all else fails, buy something shiny.

Swig Stemless Wine Cup, $30

Teabloom All-Purpose Beverage Flask, $30

This thermos isn’t just pretty, it’s functional AF. It’s a tea infuser, coffee thermos, cold brew coffee maker, fruit water infuser, and a sports water bottle all in one fancy little package.