
23 Mar Hydration
Posted at 12:52h
in Health and Wellness
You hear it all the time “Drink 8 glasses of water a day” but why? Are 8 glasses too many or not enough? Or maybe you just do not like the taste of water. Well, my friends, Hydration is important for the body and the mind and here are some tips for staying hydrating especially during the summer months.
- Don’t wait till you are thirsty to drink – By the time you feel thirsty, you’re already slightly dehydrated. Sip water steadily throughout the day and drink more fluids than usual when weather is hot, especially if you are active.
- How much should you drink everyday – The National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine provide the latest recommendations based on gender. Approximately 125 ounces for men daily and 91 ounces for women daily. If you live in hot climates or work out, you will need to increase your intake. Keep in mind these amounts include water intake from all sources, including food.
- Measure your intake – Purchase a large vessel (I suggest 1 gallon) with measurements on the bottle. Fill it up every morning and pour or drink from that container. It will give you an accurate reading on how much water you consume.
- Flavor your water – If plain water tastes boring to you, you can add flavor with fresh fruits or a splash of fruit juice. You can also consume clear broths, ice pops or sports drinks (especially if you’re doing intense exercise). Just make sure to limit caffeine, sugar, and alcohol.
- Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables – Certain fruits and vegetables contain plenty of water in addition to healthful nutrients. Watermelon, strawberries, cantaloupe, peaches, and pineapples are fruits with high-water content. Water rich veggies include cucumbers, leafy greens, radishes, celery, zucchini, and tomatoes.
- Be aware of the signs of dehydration – Do not wait for these signs to appear, but if they do drink plenty of fluids at first sign.
Staying hydrated is critical to good health. Whether you’re a fan of tap water, mineral water, or the sparking variety, it’s important to consume the recommend amount of water every day. Not only will keep your thirst at bay. it will help maintain key physiological functions that can improve your overall health and well-being.