Due to my half-hearted efforts to drink enough water, I am never quite hydrated enough as evidenced by the mouth “clicks” I hear in my recordings. I’ve heard someone call them the dandruff of voice actors. Thankfully, clicks can be edited out now with new technology.

Being well hydrated is therefore always important to me for recording clearly and is my 4^th tip from my 10 Tips for Talking. However, staying hydrated is not just for voice talent…no, no! Water is for everyone, despite what some water bottling companies will have you believe.

Here are some personal pointers on how not to dehydrate:

1. Drink a large glass of lukewarm water with lemon upon waking.
2. Have water or herbal tea as your “coffee” break beverage.
3. Keep water at your desk to sip virtually unconsciously.
4. Don’t overdo caffeine or alcohol – both are dehydrating.
5. Drink water before meals, not during. (This helps with nutrient absorption and digestion.)
6. Eat water rich foods to up the ante.
7. Reduce preservatives, chemicals, and salt which also dehydrate.
8. Add stuff to water to make it appealing (non-chemical, of course) like cucumber, lemon, or berries.
9. Check your pee! It should be clear-ish. Dark yellow means you’re dehydrated.

Here are some other helpful resources for why and how much water:

Why Drink More Water? See 6 Health Benefits of Water  

Water: How much should you drink every day?

10 Amazing Benefits of Drinking More Water