Most don’t reach for a glass of water just because they’re thirsty. We’re often lured by the caffeine jolt from coffee or soda, the cozy comfort of a hot beverage on a chilly day, or the idea that sports drinks are a must after a workout (hint: they’re usually not unless you exercise intensely for over 90 minutes).Sometimes, we drink for flavor, fizz, or fun—but not always for function. And often, we drink everything but the essential beverage to our body’s survival: water.
Why Water Deserves More Love
Water makes up about 60% of your body. It’s not just sloshing around doing nothing—it’s your body’s transportation system, moving nutrients to where they’re needed and helping flush out waste. Without enough water, our cells can’t do their job, affecting everything, especially your urinary health.Your kidneys, bladder, and the rest of your urinary tract count on you to drink water consistently throughout the day. Why? Because water helps:
Flush out waste and bacteria through the kidneys and bladder
Keep urine diluted, making it less irritating to the bladder and less likely to form kidney stones
Support blood flow to the kidneys so that they can filter toxins efficiently
Trigger more frequent urination, which helps keep the bladder healthy and clean
When you don’t drink enough water, your urine becomes more concentrated, which can lead to discomfort, sluggish kidney function, and even infections.
How Much Water Do You Need?
It varies depending on your diet, activity level, climate, and overall health. But general recommendations suggest:
Men: About 15.5 cups of fluids per day
Women: About 11.5 cups per day
These fluids can come from water, of course, but also from other beverages and water-rich foods. Still, many Americans fall short—nearly half of U.S. adults don’t drink enough water to support good health, including urinary tract health.If you’re chronically underhydrated, you might notice symptoms like fatigue, headaches, constipation, or even a weakened immune system. Relying on sugary drinks instead of water might also unknowingly add empty calories to your day.So what’s the solution if plain water just isn’t appealing to you?
Making Water a Little More Exciting
Water doesn’t have to be boring. If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I just don’t like the taste,” try these simple ways to give your water a natural boost—no added sugars or artificial sweeteners needed:
Cinnamon apple water: Steep a cinnamon stick in a cup of water. Once cooled, mix 1–2 tablespoons of this into a glass of ice water and toss in a few apple slices.
Citrus splash: For a burst of flavor, add a squeeze of lemon, lime, or orange juice to still or sparkling water.
Fruit-infused water: Add berries, melons, or cucumber slices to a water infuser bottle for a naturally refreshing taste.
Herb infusion: Crush fresh herbs like mint, basil, or rosemary and steep them in water pitcher overnight. Pair with citrus slices for extra zing.
Herb + fruit combos: For a more gourmet experience, try fun pairings like watermelon and mint or strawberry and basil.
Flavored ice cubes: Freeze whole berries, pureed pineapple, or grapes in an ice tray and drop them into your water for superb flavor as they melt.
Iced coffee or herbal tea: Brew extra and chill it—perfect for those who prefer caffeine or a caffeine-free herbal boost.
Bottom line? Water is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to support your urinary health and overall well-being. If you’re not a fan of plain water, a little creativity can go a long way. Your kidneys, bladder, and every cell in your body will thank you.Dr. David Samadiis the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer, Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.
