Studies have shown that about 60% of the human adult body is made up of water. As an essential component of our body, it plays a significant role in helping us function properly.
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For example, water helps circulate nutrients to the body parts that need them. The liquid also plays a significant role in improving our mental wellbeing. But while “drink water,” is such an easy instruction to obey, we often find ourselves falling short of expectation.
Drinking Water Can Be a Struggle
For many people, more than understanding the importance of hydration is needed to spur them to action. Let’s face it — drinking water can be boring. Add that to our busy lifestyles and forgetfulness, it’s no wonder why keeping hydrated seems like a herculean task.
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Fortunately, there are some tips you can employ to help you maintain commendable hydration levels every day. We’re happy to show you.
Don’t Joke with Dehydration
“Drinking water is like washing out your insides,” says a popular quote. No truer words have been spoken. Water helps in flushing out waste products and toxins from the body in the same way taking a shower cleanses and washes dirt off your skin.
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Conversely, dehydration does the opposite by accumulating toxins. This can cause fatigue, lightheadedness, constipation, dry skin and lips. In the worst cases, it can lead to kidney problems and other severe conditions.
How Much Water is Enough?
According to recommendations from medical experts, men should take in 15.5 cups or 3.7 liters of water daily. For women, the amount of daily water intake is set at 2.7 liters (11.5 cups).
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However, these recommendations are not set in stone because many factors can influence your ideal water intake. For example, people who live in very hot regions will need to drink more water than the average person.
You Don’t Have to Be Thirsty to Drink Water
Many people don’t realize it, but the first sign of dehydration is thirst. Whenever you’re thirsty, it’s a sign that the negative effects of low hydration levels are already setting in.
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To avoid this, never wait to feel thirsty before you remember to up your fluids. If you can, set reminders to ensure that you drink water at regular intervals.
Flavored Water to the Rescue
As we mentioned earlier, drinking water can be a bore. However, given the importance of staying hydrated, you just have to find a way around it.
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One such method is opting for flavored water. Add cucumbers to your water or squeeze a few drops of organic lemon juice in it. It makes a whole lot of difference.
Drink Before Eating
It’s possible to mistake thirst for hunger. In fact, this is the case more times than you may have imagined. When this happens, you tend to consume more food than necessary without dealing with the real problem.
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Always drink water before eating to prevent this and improve your chances of proper hydration.
Eat Your Water
Your body receives water through many forms, including liquid-based food items. For example, fruits such as cucumbers, watermelons, pineapples, grapes, oranges, etc., can help to keep you hydrated.
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So, if you’re tired of drinking water, these healthy alternatives are highly recommended. Other hydrating foods include smoothies, fresh juice, soups, leafy greens, dairy products, and other food items with high water content.
Be Strategic with Your Water Bottles
Your choice of water bottle matters when aiming for increased daily fluid intake. First, the water bottle should be large enough to handle your fluid intake goals for the day. Secondly, they should be portable and visually appealing enough to entice you to take regular sips.
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We recommend that you go for motivational water bottles with side notches that encourage you to drink. Not only should you have these water bottles, but ensure that you take them everywhere you go too.
Factor In Your Active Periods
You wouldn’t need the same quantity of water to meet your daily hydration goals. Generally, you’ll need to consider your activity levels for the day before deciding the appropriate amount of water intake.
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We advise that you drink more water on the days you’ll be extra active or stay in the sun for extended periods.
Challenge Your Bestie to a Water Duel
You can make drinking water fun by converting the otherwise casual activity into an exciting challenge with your friends. Simply set daily hydration goals for everyone to see who meets them without hassles.
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If your friends can’t join you, you can just challenge yourself to drink more water than you typically do each day.
Happy Hydrating!
Maintaining optimal hydration levels can be a fun and rewarding activity if you know how to go about it. Begin with the steps above and track your progress regularly.
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It’s okay to fall short of expectations sometimes. But if you don’t give up and remain consistent, you’ll be amazed at the results.
