Water is the elixir of life, and staying hydrated is essential for our overall health and well-being. Whether it’s during hot summer days, intense workouts, or even chilly winter months, maintaining proper hydration is crucial. Our bodies are 70% water, so it is important to drink enough every single day. Not just for your health, but also for your skin and performance. In this blog post, I will give you some practical and effective tips to help you keep yourself hydrated and feeling your best every day.
How to keep yourself hydrated
- Carry a Water Bottle Everywhere
Make it a habit to carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go. Having water readily available will serve as a constant reminder to take sips throughout the day, even when you’re busy or on the move. Opt for a BPA-free bottle that’s easy to clean and fits well in your bag or backpack. It helps when you pick a cute water bottle with a nice color.
- Set Hydration Goals
Set daily hydration goals based on your age, gender, activity level, and climate. A general rule of thumb is to aim for at least 8 cups (64 ounces) of water per day, but individual needs may vary. Some people sweat more because they exercise and other people are taller and need to drink more water. Use a water tracking app or mark your water bottle to monitor your progress and stay motivated.
- Drink Before You Feel Thirsty
Thirst is a sign that your body is already in need of fluids. Stay ahead of thirst by sipping water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty yet. Preventing dehydration is easier than trying to catch up once you’ve become thirsty. Make it a habit to take a few little sips every 15-30 minutes.
- Infuse Your Water
If plain water seems boring, add some flavor by infusing it with fruits, herbs, or cucumber slices. Not only does this make water more enticing, but it also adds a touch of natural sweetness without the added sugars found in sugary drinks. Right now, AirUp exists too. This water bottle gives you the idea that you drink water with a flavor but you are just drinking plain water. This can be a solution for those who think drinking water is boring.
- Schedule Water Breaks
In the midst of a busy day, it’s easy to forget about hydration. Set reminders on your phone or use breaks in your daily routine as opportunities to drink water. Whether it’s during work breaks, before or after meals, or when you wake up and before you go to bed, find moments to hydrate. This is a great tip for those who always forget to drink more.
- Eat Water-Rich Foods
In addition to drinking water, you can increase your hydration through water-rich foods like fruits (watermelon, oranges, berries) and vegetables (cucumbers, celery, lettuce). These foods not only provide water but also offer essential vitamins and minerals. Add more fruit and veggies to your meals or make a delicious soup.
- Limit Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages can contribute to dehydration as they have diuretic effects, causing increased urination. While you don’t need to eliminate them entirely, be mindful of your intake and balance them with plenty of water. This is also the reason why you feel hangover after a night drinking lots of alcohol. A hangover means you need to drink more water.
- Monitor Urine Color
Keep an eye on the color of your urine as it can indicate your hydration level. Pale yellow or straw-colored urine generally means you are well-hydrated, while darker urine may indicate dehydration.
- Hydrate Before, During, and After Exercise
When exercising, your body loses more water through sweat. Hydrate before your workout, drink during exercise if it lasts more than 30 minutes, and replenish fluids afterward to aid in recovery. Take little sips before and during your exercise. Drinking too much water while exercising is not a very nice feeling. I speak from experience. Just take little sips every few minutes.
- Create Hydration Rituals
Establishing hydration rituals can make drinking water more enjoyable. Whether it’s sipping a glass of water with lemon in the morning, having a herbal tea break in the afternoon, or winding down with a soothing cup of chamomile tea before bed, find what works best for you. Create a routine for your drinking habits. I have a routine where I drink a water bottle of water before lunch and one after lunch. Then one bottle before dinner and one after dinner. But spread it out. Drinking too much water in one moment can be dangerous too.
Staying hydrated is a simple yet powerful way to maintain good health and well-being. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can ensure that your body gets the hydration it needs to function optimally. Remember, small changes can have a big impact on your overall health, so raise that water bottle and toast to a healthier and more hydrated you!
Photo by Bindle Bottle on Unsplash