Commit to drinking more water each day! Whether it’s 8 glasses, a full water bottle, or just adding an extra glass to your day, every step counts. Sign the pledge to show your commitment to making hydration a daily habit!

Share your story and tell us why you’re taking the pledge! Share how drinking more water helps you in your daily hustle—whether it’s for school, sports or just feeling better every day. Submit a short story or video (1-2 minutes) where you share your reasons for staying hydrated and what you do to make water a part of your routine. You can also share what staying healthy and hydrated means to you!

You’ll be joining a community of Native youth who are all working together to stay healthy and motivated to pursue their goals. Your story can help inspire others to take better care of themselves and make hydration a daily habit. As a thank-you for participating, you’ll be entered into a drawing for cool prizes, including water bottles, gear, and other fun giveaways!

Water helps with digestion, regulates your body temperature, keeps your skin healthy, and supports your kidneys and liver in removing waste from your body. Drinking enough water also helps your brain work better and keeps you energized. 

Reference:  Mayo Clinic - Water: How much should you drink every day? 

Yes! When you’re dehydrated, you might feel tired, moody, or have trouble concentrating. Drinking water helps your brain and body function better, giving you more energy and improving your mood. 

Reference:  National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Hydration and Mental Performance 

Water doesn’t have to be boring! You can make it more enjoyable by adding fruit slices (like lemon, lime, or berries) or cucumber. Sparkling water or unsweetened flavored water are also great options that still keep you hydrated without sugar. 

Reference:  Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health - Water 

Yes, sugary drinks contribute to major health issues, especially in Native communities, where rates of obesity and diabetes are higher. Excess sugar from drinks can lead to long-term health problems, including serious conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. 

Reference:  CDC - Obesity and American Indians/Alaska Natives 

Reference:  American Dental Association (ADA) – Sugary Drinks and Teeth 

Staying hydrated with water helps your muscles work properly, keeps your body at the right temperature, and improves endurance. It’s essential for performing well in sports or physical activities, especially if you’re playing outdoors in hot weather. 

Reference:  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Hydration and Physical Activity 

Reference:  Indian Health Service (IHS) – Diabetes Prevention 

The need for a sports drink is only necessary during prolonged and intense activity or exercise lasting more than 60 minutes, particularly in hot weather or when exercise is at high intensity (e.g., intense sports practices, long runs, or triathlons). For typical short-to-moderate activity, water remains the best choice. 

If an athlete is playing football for a couple of hours in hot weather or running a long race, a sports drink may be appropriate to replenish electrolytes and provide energy. Otherwise, water will suffice. 

Reference:  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Hydration and Physical Activity