Summer is a truly wonderful time for all of us sun-obsessed folks. It's a rare time for us to wear breezy clothes, pick up a book and stay outside lounging under the heat.

Because we're staying under the sun, wearing masks, and moving around, dehydration is imminent. That's why we're always reminded to drink lots of water during this time. If you think you don't get thirsty often, but you are experiencing dizziness, fatigue and irritation, that's your body screaming for water!

Dehydration is quite common. There's even a study by nutritionist pointing out that when you think you're hungry, you are only thirsty. A glass of water can curve the overeating.

We are told to drink eight glasses of water a day. Some recent studies contest this, and many people complain about how impossible it is to achieve this! But the actual water we are required to drink actually varies depending on a host of factors. We must put into consideration, one's weight, exposure to the environment, level of physical activities, gut function and medication if we are taking any. Eight glasses of water or 64 ounces is still a good place to start. How is that achievable?

Water is great and refreshing, sure. But it's also flat and often unappealing.

Thankfully, there are plenty of healthy beverages that we can choose from that will count toward our daily water intake. Gulping these drinks won't feel like a childhood punishment.

Remember, water is considered a liquid beverage without any caffeine, alcohol, or sugar in its content. Swap flat water with these beverages that contain zero or few calories. You won't even realize you've consumed 8 glasses already.

Fruit-Infused Water

Flavoured water is gaining popularity because technically you are drinking water minus the blandness of flat water. However, these may contain sugar or calories. Check the label to be sure! Another healthier way you can stay hydrated is infused water. Just add slices of your favourite fruits or veggies, and herbs to a pitcher of ice-cold water. This refreshing drink will be your summer companion. Try slices of lemons or oranges, mix with watermelon or cucumber. Add a few sprigs of mint or a dash of lime. The options are limitless!

Green Tea

It surprises me that even in this year of information and advancement, some people are still sceptical of the power and benefits of Green Tea. So let me just very quickly do a laundry list of its benefits. Green Tea helps reduce the risk of several types of cancer, heart disease, obesity, liver disease, and type 2 diabetes. Green Tea is calorie-free and packed with antioxidants. Drink this super beverage hot or iced.

Water with Cinnamon

This is a brilliant idea that not only makes your house smell great but also hydrates you. This is a popular method used by many Middle Eastern houses where temperature can go very high. Add a cinnamon stick to boiled water and then allow it to cool.

Flavoured Sparkling Water

If you're like me who reaches for soda to quench thirst, this is a healthier option. It's not full of sugar the way soda is. You can add a boost of vitamin c from citrus by squeezing a bit of lemon or lime to sparkling water and enjoy!

Whatever your activity is for the season, stay healthy and hydrated.