Many people don’t realize that sodas, energy drinks, and specialty coffees can add hundreds of empty calories and almost no nutritional value to your diet. Your best bet for healthy hydration is water.

Calorie-free and refreshing, water plays an important role in regulating body temperature, removing waste, cushioning joints, and protecting your tissues and organs. Make drinking water throughout the day a habit with these tips:

• Take it with you. Keep a reusable water bottle with you at all times — in the car, at your desk, on your walks, and in your gym bag.

• Keep it interesting. Try out different calorie-free, caffeine-free bottled waters to mix it up — and choose sparkling varieties for some added pizzazz.

• Tag along with food. Drink liquid with every meal and snack.

• Accompany your workout. Remember to have water before and after your workout — during, too, if it’s hot or dry outside.

Add a hint of flavor to your water and give your mouth the incentive to drink up. Freeze cantaloupe or honeydew balls, raspberries, blueberries, or 100 percent fruit juice in ice cube trays and add to your glass. Or for a fresher twist, crush fresh mint leaves and strawberries or add cucumber slices. Whether you jazz it up or drink it straight, getting enough water will help you perform at your peak.