THE IMPORTANCE OF HYDRATION
Drinking water is one of the simplest most straightforward health and wellness tips that most people don’t do. Hydration is often the first thing forgotten about when we are busy or simply not used to drinking enough water. Read this article for 3 reasons why prioritizing hydration is essential for health.
1. YOUR BODY NEEDS IT (YES, NEEDS).
Water is not optional or something that you should only drink when you are thirsty. Often times, if you wait until you are thirsty, you are actually dehydrated, and thirst is your body’s way of telling you that it needs water. Do not wait for the thirst cue to drink.
Truth is- our bodies need water to run correctly. Water helps to regulate our body temperature, deliver nutrients to cells and our organs need it in order to function. From a physiological lens, we will run our best when properly hydrated.
At a minimum, it is recommended to drink at least 8 cups, or 64 ounces of water per day. If you are active, you likely need more than that to stay optimally hydrated and going beyond 64 ounces is great.
2. DEHYDRATION IS DANGEROUS
The dangers of dehydration are not something to risk. Being dehydrated means your body does not have enough fluid to operate properly. Dehydration prevents us from functioning optimally, leads to sleepiness and fatigue, dizziness, and potentially even confusion. Often times people don’t even realize how dehydrated they have gotten used to being and realize how much better they feel once they begin prioritizing hydration.
In addition, certain beverages and activities can dehydrate us and are important to be aware of. Caffeine, alcohol, excess sweating, and sickness are some things that can cause dehydration. Make sure to always drink water before, during and after drinking caffeine and/or alcohol and to remain extra conscious of hydration when exercising or when sick.
3. YOU WILL FEEL BETTER
Bottom line is that water is an essential nutrient for our bodies. We are made up of mostly water and consistent hydration helps support our lifestyles. By remaining hydrated you will be able to think more clearly, have better energy and perform your best.
If you feel that you need to do a better job at prioritizing hydration, start with these easy tips and tricks below:
- Get a water bottle you like (yes, invest in one that makes you “like” drinking water).
- Always start your morning with water- that means before coffee! Put a water bottle by your bed or by the coffee machine as a gentle reminder.
- Set a reminder on your phone for every hour to drink water until it becomes a habit.
- Never be without a water - whether you are on the coach, at the gym, at work, at an appointment, etc. make sure that water is something that always comes with you.