Water Tips

Water is essential to good health – every system in our bodies relies on water1. The Mayo Clinic informs us that our daily activities cause us to lose water, which must be replenished in order for our bodies to function properly. Year-round refreshment is also important as you need to drink additional water in hot or humid weather to help lower your body temperature and to replace what you lose through sweating. You may also need extra water in cold weather if you sweat while wearing insulated clothing.1

But, with such busy lives, we may find it difficult to drink enough water everyday.

The Nutrition Information Center at The New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center offers the following easy tips for maintaining proper hydration:2

  • Make water your preferred beverage.
  • Drink chilled water for improved taste.
  • Drink at the same times each day.
  • Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water. By the time you feel thirsty, you probably have already lost two or more cups of your total body fluids.
  • Develop a ‘hydration habit’ by having a glass of water when you wake up, one with each meal, and one at bedtime.
  • Convenience is also the key to staying properly hydrated, so carry a bottle of water with you as you commute to work, run errands or enjoy a day at the beach.
  • Keep single-serve bottles of water in your car, backpack or desk.
  • Maintain easy access to water by keeping your refrigerator or cooler well-stocked at home or at the office.
  • Take a water break instead of a coffee tea or soda break. Caffeine acts as a diuretic, causing you to lose water through increased urination. Alcoholic beverages have a similar effect.
  • Hydrate before, during and after exercise. Don’t underestimate the amount of fluids lost from perspiration.
  • At social gatherings, substitute alcohol with water and a twist of lime or lemon.
  • Choose a bottle of water instead of soft drinks or juice when you’re out for lunch or dinner with friends.
  • Add a slice of lemon or lime for flavor
  • Don’t forget that common maladies such as colds and the flu can frequently lead to dehydration. So, when you¿re sick, keep a large bottle of water next to your bed to sip it throughout the day without having to get up.
  • Check your urine to make sure you’re getting enough water. You should urinate every two to three hours during the day, and it should be clear to pale yellow in color.

Sources:
1 http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/water/NU00283
2 http://www.livingwaterco.com/important_news_and_info.html