10 Reasons to Stay Hydrated
The common misconception is that staying hydrated is only for the summer. Having vital fluids are essential for maintaining every function of our body down to our skin and nails. Its also no secret that water takes up 60% of our
body weight. The good thing is that there are more interesting ways to keep hydrated than the standard recommendation of 8 glasses of water a day. Here are 10 ways that can lead you to a more hydrated life!
Don’t Wait to Get Thirsty
Getting thirsty is not the only sign you are dehydrated. The color of your urine can also determine you hydration level. The darker it is the more dehydrated you are. Following a hydration schedule is a good idea.
Hunger Can Also be a Sign
If you are watching you weight and you feel hungry, drinking a bottle of water might be a good idea. You may find out that you were simply thirsty. Moreover, if you fill your stomach with more water, you will have less space for
consuming calories. Always keep a bottle of water with you.
Hydration is Important on Many Levels
If you are hydrated enough, your energy level is kept up, regulates your mood, keeps your body functioning regularly and keeps your body cool.
Water is not Your Only Hydrant
Water is not the only thing which can keep you hydrated. Coconut water, infused water and many other drinks can keep you hydrated as well, in case you get too bored of water.
Food Contains Water
20% of our fluid intake comes from food. Water-rich foods like cucumbers, strawberries and watermelons are fluid rich foods as well as soups and smoothies
Better Workout Performance
When hydration levels are low, performance is as well. Just a little bit of dehydration can lead to a poor performance so be sure to hydrate well before a workout.
Water is Sometimes not Enough
When involving yourself in strenuous activities, you need to replenish your electrolytes as well to get enough sodium which is an element of hydration. Try sports drinks, electrolyte tablets or try infusing drinks with lime or other citric fruits.
Staying Hydrated Helps with Weight Loss
Research shows the more water you drink, the fewer calories you consume - about 20 grams per week if you are on the top of your hydration game. Drinking water also aids in boosting your metabolism. While water is always there, tea kombucha and coffee also help in fueling weight loss.
Tracking Your Hydration Levels
While we know how important hydration is, we need to be able to track it. Buy a 500 ml bottle which you feel comfortable with or even find cute and make sure to fill it at least 5 times a day and then observe the changes in your overall health.
Keep in Adequate
Since we are too focused on drinking more water, we often ignore the question: How much water is too much water? In fact, drinking too much water can lead to a condition called hyponatremia. The primary concern with drinking too much water is the loss of sodium which is where electrolytes.
So we need to really watch out water drinking habits and also keep them balanced - not too low and not too high. Happy hydrating!