Hydration seems to be something that is not regarded as important in your overall health. Let me explain, we ALL know that the body needs to stay hydrated in order to function optimally. Yet, if most people are honest they do not ingest the amount of water that is needed for the proper physiological function. I find that most people will be focused mainly on the diet and lifestyle aspects of their lifestyle, and hydration is not a focus. My patients will tell me that they always intend to drink more water, but notice by the end of the day that they have not taken in as much water as they desired. I find personally, that if I do not make an effort to have water with me, wherever I am, including sitting in my office writing this blog, then I will also not get enough water throughout the day because I don’t think about it.
Various issues can arise when one is dehydrated. You can feel fatigue, have dry skin, and also have issues with hunger and cravings. The latter at times is just the body asking for hydration, not for you to eat. An easy way to know when you are dehydrated is if you are running out of your favourite lip balm! Your lips will be dry and you will constantly need to moisturize them.
Hydration has the following benefits for the body:
- Enhanced energy
- Clearer skin
- Better appetite control
- Easier bowel movements
I find the best way to stay hydrated is to make your water FUN! Put various fruits in it to make if more tasty!
- Orange slices: gives it a sweeter flavour and allows an upbeat mood!
- Lemon slices: adds tartness to the water and a gentle liver detox.
- Lime slices with cucumber: this is a gentle liver detoxifier, and gives it a tart and smooth taste. I drink this almost every day and it helps with my digestion!
- Strawberry: adding fresh strawberry to your water gives it a sweet and refreshing taste.
- Cherry: adding a few cherries can add a tartness and a sweetness to your water.
The other way to stay hydrated is to reduce your caffeine intake, or at the very least, add in one glass of water per caffeinated drink. I recently have been trying to wean myself off of caffeinated coffee and have been using a Swiss Water Decaf coffee from Kicking Horse. If you are going to switch to decaf makes sure it is Swiss Water to reduce your toxin exposure risk. I have also tried a chicory drink, Teccino Mocka, which I love as a decaf coffee alternative. Adding a morning smoothie can also help to increase your fluid intake throughout the summer. I like to add in coconut water to my smoothies to increase the electrolyte content. Electrolytes are easily lost in the summer when you are sweating throughout the day.
The best tip that I can give you in increase your hydration is to buy a large water bottle, ideally glass, not plastic, and keep it with you throughout the day. Buy one that you love to look at so that you will get excited to experiment with the various fruit and water combos! Get one with a large mouth so that you can slip in your fruit slices.
Have a wonderful summer and keep hydrated!