<human>: I realize that for many people, switching to water is the first step in starting a new diet - I don't think I can... I think I'm looking for an alternate to water.

Here's my situation. Not too long ago, I drank nothing but water. I was pretty happy, healthy, and hydrated on roughly 6 bottles of water a day. I'd switched over about 6 months prior and felt good about it. Well, came to find out I needed birth control for medical reasons. Two weeks into it, water made me feel physically ill and I couldn't keep it down. Turns out I got a rare side effect in the form of a palate change, no more water for me. Needless to say, frustrating.

I've tried going back many times. Tried 5+ brands of store bought water. Tried the little flavor packets you put in water. I read something curious recently. Apparently increasing the protein in your diet can help curb this palate change. Does anyone have experience with this?

Can you summarize the given text in a few sentences?
<bot>: Water makes me physically ill from a palate change side effect. Looking for alternate, healthy drinks. Also does protein actually help this situation?