You Are Not A Cactus; Drink Your Water
We all know that drinking water is essential for our health, but many of us don't realise just how important it is to make sure we're getting enough of it and won't drink it because we don't like the taste. In this blog post, we'll explore the importance of drinking enough water to maintain optimal health and debunk some of the common misconceptions about hydration. We'll cover the benefits of staying hydrated, how much water you should be drinking, and why you should ditch the excuses and start sipping your H2O.
How much water should you drink?
The amount of water you should drink each day is often debated, but most healthcare professionals agree that the average adult should consume about 8 glasses of water per day. That comes out to about 2 litres of water. You do NOT, I repeat do NOT need to be drinking 4+ litres per day unless you really like spending time on your toilet.
You can also get some of your daily water from eating food that contains high water content. I would consider any water derived from food an additive to your 2 litres of water. Unless you really like cucumbers and tomatoes, then have at it!
Drinking plenty of water helps to maintain a healthy body weight, promotes good skin health, and boosts the immune system. It can also help reduce fatigue and improve concentration. Plus, it can help to flush out toxins and waste products that accumulate in the body. Staying hydrated helps to keep your digestive system functioning properly and keeps your heart and circulatory system running optimally. I personally HATE the feeling of being thirsty & dehydrated so I try to drink a minimum of 2 litres per day.
Here are five pro tips to build up your hydration habits:
- Invest in a 1.2 litre or larger water bottle with a straw to make it easier to sip throughout the day. Aim to fill and drain — by drinking— twice per day.
- Fill this water bottle at night, then place it somewhere you can't forget to grab it the next morning. Think: you're nightstand, near the front door or by the coffee maker.
- “Habit stack” by drinking water in partnership with other things you already do. For example, commit to drinking two glasses or half of that 1.2 litre water bottle before your first cup of coffee or after brushing your teeth in the morning.
- Flavour with diet rite cordial! I know, I know, it's not the healthiest option but it is super accessible and affordable compared to hydration additives you can buy from health store. For the calorie conscious (I just personally don't like drinking my calories-give me food, or people who don't love water, this really upped my water intake game.
- Drink at least one glass of water with each meal and every 15 minutes or so during exercise.
- Set reminders for yourself throughout the day as prompts to drink more water. For example, set an alarm for every hour, or use a program like WaterMinder or Plant Nanny to track and remind you when you should be drinking more.
- If you're bored of basic H2O, infuse your water with fruits, veggies, herbs, or teas. This will give your taste buds a flavour boost while still providing your body with the hydration it needs. Also... keep an eye out for our water boosters coming in 2023!
Foods that help you stay hydrated
It’s no secret that the best way to stay hydrated is to drink water. But what if you don’t like drinking plain water? You can get your fluids from food as well! Eating foods that are high in water content can help you stay hydrated and give you a burst of energy.
Here are some foods that are high in water content:
Fruits & Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are some of the most hydrating foods around. The high water content in fruits and vegetables helps your body absorb the nutrients they contain more quickly. Examples include cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, celery, strawberries, and apples.
Smoothies & Juices: Smoothies and juices are a great way to get more fluids into your body. Not only do they contain plenty of water, but they also provide additional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Some of the best options for a hydrating smoothie or juice include pineapple, coconut water, spinach, and banana.
Soups & Stews: Soups and stews are also high in water content. They also provide a variety of nutrients and flavors. Some of the best choices for a hydrating soup or stew include tomato, vegetable, and chicken noodle.
Yogurt & Milk: Dairy products like yogurt and milk are also full of water. Not only do they help keep you hydrated, but they provide essential calcium and protein. The probiotics in yogurt are also beneficial for gut health.
Coconut Water: Coconut water is an excellent source of electrolytes and it is also naturally high in potassium. It can help replenish fluids quickly after intense exercise or prolonged sweating.
Hydrating your body with the right foods is an important part of maintaining optimal health. Eating foods that are high in water content can help you feel energised and nourished throughout the day.
(it really does suck)
The dangers of dehydration
Dehydration is a serious medical condition that can have a variety of negative effects on your body. When you don't drink enough water, your body can't function properly, resulting in dizziness, confusion, headaches, fatigue, and other symptoms.
Without water, your body's organs can't do their job correctly, leading to further problems such as kidney stones and even organ failure. I know when I don't drink enough water, I get headaches and end of feeling thirst for what feels like an eternity, even when I try to drink to curb my thirst.
Dehydration can also affect your mental health, causing irritability and mood swings. Even mild dehydration can lead to a decrease in energy levels, making it harder to focus on tasks or activities.
In addition to these short-term dangers, chronic dehydration can put you at greater risk for long-term health complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Dehydration can also lead to an electrolyte imbalance, which can cause cramps, muscle spasms, and seizures. Yikes!
Keeping a water bottle with you at all times is an easy way to remind yourself to stay hydrated..
(me writing this blog post...)
How we can help...
We don't mean to toot our own horn but, toot toot...!
Hydration Nation is here to help you stay hydrated this summer! We offer a range of 1.2 litre drink bottles, designed to keep your water cold and fresh all day long. Our bottles are also easy to carry around, and they come in a range of designs to suit any style.
If you're looking for something even more advanced, keep an eye out for our insulated bottles coming soon. These will keep your water cool all day, no matter what the temperature. We'll also be launching our water boosters in 2023, giving you an extra dose of vitamins and minerals with every sip.
We want to make sure that everyone stays hydrated, so we're offering free delivery on all single and two bottle bundles. So what are you waiting for? Get your Hydration Nation bottle today, and help stay hydrated this summer!
Last but not least, heres a cheeky 15% discount site wide for our blog readers.
THANKYOU15
