Did you know that many of us are chronically dehydrated during the winter months?
We drink less water when it's cold out, our thirst response is diminished, and we lose more fluids through respiratory water loss in the winter. This could lead to foggy brain, sleep issues, weight gain, and mood swings, among other things. You can read more about it HERE.
So... how about this idea for a New Year’s resolution— -- DRINK MORE WATER!
The goal is to drink half your body weight in ounces of water every day. (For example, if you weigh 200 lbs you would consume 100 ounces every day.)
Start with drinking your quota for a week. Then see if you can make it two, three, then four weeks. The longer the challenge the more likely it will become a lifelong habit.
Here are some tips to make hydration easier:
*Pre-fill multiple water bottles the night before with the amount your body needs and finish all the water bottles by the end of the next day. Avoid using one bottle with the intention of refilling it during the course of the day-- it rarely works.
*Use only stainless steel or glass containers as water bottles. Plastic (even BPA-free) contains estrogen-mimickers and other hormone disruptors. Best to keep those out of your body.
*Add slices of lemon, lime, cucumber, or crushed mint, etc. to your water to subtly flavor it. Avoid processed flavorings and mixes-- your taste buds will adapt over time to the more natural flavorings.
*Drink a tall glass of water first thing in the morning, right when you wake up. Not only does this give you a head start on your daily intake, but it helps get things moving, if you know what I mean.
*Drink water at meals rather than soda, coffee, etc.
*Try sparkling water to mix things up if flat water gets boring. Just avoid preservatives (often found in canned waters) and artificial flavorings.
*There are several great apps out there that help you track your progress. I use my Fitbit app, but HERE are some other highly rated apps for hydration.
*Coffee, diet soda, sports drinks, etc. don’t count. It’s all about H.2.O.
We can do this! Tag @fittbodies on your hydration posts and use the hashtag #hydrationchallenge to let me know your progress.
Always yours in Health,
