While all drinks – even coffee and tea – and many foods (such as soup, watermelon or citrus fruits) contribute to your daily fluid intake, water is still the best bet for staying healthy and hydrated. After all, water has no calories and none of the additives – such as artificial flavouring and colour – found in drinks like energy drinks and soda pop. And in communities with a safe water supply, water is free for the drinking.

But the fact is that water isn’t always the most exciting beverage on offer – especially if it’s competing with tasty, but sugary, drinks like chocolate milk, pop or sports drinks. If you have trouble drinking enough water, here are three easy ways to entice yourself to drink more:

1. Try a fruit-infused water. Adding fruit (and even herbs) lends a novel flavour to your beverage, without adding calories. Bonus: It’s pretty!
2. Keep a glass (or bottle) close at hand. Easy access is important – especially because by the time you get thirsty, you’re already a bit dehydrated. Invest in an insulated water bottle – a nice cold drink is much more appealing than a lukewarm one.
3. Make it part of your routine. Drinking a glass of water when you first wake up and with every meal will get you halfway to your daily recommended fluid intake.

Make water your first choice and save other beverages for a special treat. Needs vary person-by-person, so pay attention to your thirst and you’ll be well on your way to drinking enough water every day.