Social occasions can be an easy time to fall into the trap of opting for a sugary drink over a healthier option because you can just end up drinking whatever is first offered to you or out on the table then you get there. Your Switch to Water challenge could get a little tricky around these occasions!
Here’s a few tips from the New Zealand Dental Association and NZ registered nutritionist Claire Turnball to ensure you remain on track while navigating social occasions.
If you are well hydrated before you go, if there are sugary options on offer, you will drink less of them if you aren’t so thirsty. Also, if you are drinking alcohol, being well hydrated can help slow the pace you drink! It can be all too easy to turn up to a BBQ or party and drink a large glass of wine or 2 beers very quickly because you were just really thirsty.
At some parties and social events, water won’t be out on the table easy to access, so don’t be afraid to make the move and ask for the plain stuff! Or, if it is appropriate take your own and add flavours of your choice.
If you have people coming round to your place, make water easily accessible. Fill up jugs or bottles and add mint, slices of lemon or a handful of blueberries to make it colourful and appealing. This is important for kids as well – as they can forget to drink too. Having water around for them to see and easy to reach is helpful to remind them to keep hydrated.
Best of luck keeping yourself well hydrated and well done for making the changes you have so far to switch to water!