Hydration: The Key to a Healthy Life

We all know that water is key to survival, but many of us do not drink enough to get all of the benefits from it. Here’s why hydration is so important and how to ensure you’re hydrating enough:

Why It’s Important:

• Increases Energy Levels: Dehydration can lead to fatigue, so keeping hydrated helps maintain your energy and brain function throughout the day.

• Aids Digestion: Water helps break down food and absorb nutrients. 

• Supports Healthy Skin: Proper hydration helps keep skin soft and less prone to wrinkles.

• Regulates Temperature: Water helps regulate body heat, which is especially important during exercise or hot weather.

• Filters Toxins Out: Drinking enough water helps your kidneys filter out waste and toxins from your body.

How Much You Should Be Drinking:

The U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine recommended consuming about 15.5 cups of fluids a day for men and about 11.5 cups of fluids a day for women. This number can fluctuate based on climate, amount of exercise you do, your size, etc. but is a good guideline to follow to stay hydrated. 

This fluid intake doesn’t have to come from just water. Other beverages such as tea, milk, and juice contain a large water content that can contribute to hydration. Electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, are also important for hydration, especially after exercise when sweating depletes your electrolytes. These can be replenished with fruit, coconut water, milk, etc.

Tips to Stay Hydrated:

• Carry water or an electrolyte drink with you throughout the day.

• Drink before you’re thirsty. Oftentimes, you are already dehydrated by the time you feel thirsty. 

• Set reminders. If you tend to forget to drink water, set reminders for throughout the day to remind you to hydrate. 

• Eat water-rich food. Hydration doesn’t have to come from water or electrolyte drinks. Foods like cucumber, watermelon, lettuce, etc. can also contribute to hydration. 

Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to improve your overall health. Proper hydration helps with everything from mental clarity to physical performance, and it’s an easy habit to incorporate into your routine to get the most out of your day.