There’s so much talk about the effects of sugary drinks (and high-sugar foods) to the human body. Many researchers and scientists have also published their findings about how a high-sugar diet can make us more susceptible to various diseases. The evidence and data are already piling.

But no matter how obvious is it that regularly drinking sugary drinks is not good for our body, we still see all around us reaching for that can of soda. Why is that the case?

Sugary drinks are a default choice for many

One reason is that soft drinks are widely available. Whenever people get thirsty and they go inside a convenience store, the first thing they see is that can or bottle of soda. In addition, some workplaces and many public areas don’t have enough drinking fountains around. When we get thirsty, we will reach out for the easiest solution and often it’s buying a can of soda at the store.

Relying on our own willpower is not enough. What really works is we make it “automatic” so we won’t ever think about it. This way, it becomes a part of our habit and we maintain our good health in the process. But how do we accomplish that?

Ways on how to make drinking more water habitual

One easy way is to tie it in with an existing habit (the cue). It’s the same with encouraging kids to “brush their teeth after eating.” If you tie in the new habit with an old one, it becomes easier to adopt.

Here’s a scenario. Before you go to work or school, you can fill out a stainless water bottle and bring it with you right after brushing your teeth. If you are regularly jogging, you can set the drinking fountain to be your last destination before you get back home.

In public places and during outdoor events, officials and coordinators can put up drinking fountains and water refill stations around. This is important especially if the community or event promote healthy practices. This way, the whole place or event will be aligned with the agenda.

Here’s another scenario. Before you get into your car for a long travel, have a stainless water bottle with you. Make sure it’s washed and filled with clean water. Add it to your checklist whenever you’re going for an extended trip.

A bigger picture for drinking more water

Staying hydrated with clean water will benefit you and your family. In addition, there are benefits that extend to the community and even to the society as a whole.

If you’re getting the water repeatedly from a drinking fountain or reusable water bottle, think of how you’re helping the environment. You won’t be contributing anymore to the plastic wastes in the landfill. Do that every day and it will make a difference in the long run.