Stay Hydrated and Stay Healthy

Hydration is so important, our body needs water in order to survive.  We can go about a month without food, but we would only be able to live two or three days without water.  We are actually 75% water, and every cell, tissue and organ in our body needs water to function.

How does water help the body?

Transport nutrients and oxygen to your cells

Keeps your skin elasticity healthy, keeping it looking young

Regulates your body temperature

Protects organs and keeps them functioning properly

Helps you properly digest food and eliminate waste on a regular basis

Lubricates your joints

Eliminate toxins

Energizes your muscles

Helps you think more clearly

Combats hunger and makes you feel full

How much water should I drink?

It is important that you drink water throughout the day and that you never feel thirsty.  You should drink about 1 quart of water for every 50 pounds that you weigh.  That may seem like a daunting amount of water to consume.  Start your day with a big drink of water and slowly and work your way up throughout the day.  And if plain water just doesn’t hit the spot, try infusing your water with fruit, veggies and fresh herbs.

Remember to listen to your body, it will tell you what it needs.  Being thirsty can make you feel tired, weak, unable to focus and even get a headache.  Our brain may even send a signal that feels like “I’m hungry” but it really means, “I’m super thirsty!”  Try drinking a big glass of water before grabbing a snack or eat a snack that is high in water like, cucumbers, watermelon, celery, apples, citrus and leafy greens.  Avoid all foods and drinks that take water from the body.  Dehydrating foods include, soda, fried foods, and sugar.

Here are some ideas that may help you remember to drink more water.

Every time you get a text or email notification, take a drink of water.

Keep a reusable water bottle full and with you all the time.

Put a rubber band around the center of your water bottle, one for every full bottle that you need to drink that day.  Each time you finish a full bottle move the rubber band to the top of the bottle or put it around your wrist.  Keep drinking until all the rubber bands have moved.

Share how you remember to drink your water.

Featured image photo credit: www.stock.adobe.com