Stay hydrated. Especially in these hot summer months.
Even if you're not thirsty, you should be sipping on fluids throughout the day. Most people need at least 64 oz of fluid a day (that's how many oz are in the age-old saying 8 glasses a day). If you're exercising or sweating a lot outside, you need even more! Think about 8 oz. of water every 15-20 minutes of outdoor activity.
A good way to make sure you're getting in the right amount is by keeping your water, Crystal Light, Gatorade ( do you need sports drinks?! ) with you pretty much all the time.
Now since these are things you likely already know, let me tell you why really need to know them:
Benefits of staying hydrated:
- You can endure longer, more effective workouts = more calories burned
- Your heart doesn't have to work as hard when you're adequately hydrated
- Helps your metabolism work more effectively
- It can help you feel more energized
- It helps your body's natural detoxification processes
- It can help your immune system be awesome so you can enjoy your summer
- You could have fewer headaches and body aches.
- You could be less dizzy when you stand up (don't you hate that?!)
- It can help your body temperature regulation
- It can help you lose weight and keep it off! I don't say that very often, guys, so that means hydration is where it's at.
What happens when you're not hydrated:
- You can get really dizzy when you stand up (as aforementioned)
- You can get really really sick and it stinks because you might have to go to the hospital and pay a lot of hospital bills for a long time just cause you had to go get some water to pumped into your arm.
- You can get muscle cramps.
- Your muscles can stop working as well.
- You can have a slower recovery time.
- You can have problems with digestion.
- Your heart has to work harder.
- You can get really tired.
- You can get to feeling pretty bad overall.
Water is the best source of hydration, but let's be honest- there aren't many of us that love water enough to drink it all day every day. That's why I made you this next list:
Things that will keep you hydrated that aren't water:
- Crystal Light (CL Pure has no artificial flavors or colors and is naturally sweetened with stevia if that's your thing)
- Tea- but watch out for sugar and the caffeine. Caffeine can actually have a dehydrating effect.
- Sodas- with the same disclaimer as above.
- Milk - remember to choose a low or no fat milk.
- Eating lots of fruits and vegetables because a lot of them have a really high water content-- cool, right?!
- Natural 100% fruit and vegetable juices - just be careful with serving sizes
- Soups and broths- especially when you're sick!
** Special Note- alcohol is a diuretic. That means that it can dehydrate you really badly, really fast. If you drink, definitely don't count this toward your fluid for the day. As a matter of fact, I'd be chugging that water right along with whatever beverage you're enjoying. This can help prevent hangovers. You're welcome.
So now you know! Staying hydrated is well worth it. I challenge you try and get in your 64 oz a day (or more), and see if you notice a difference!!
Questions, anyone??
sarahmicheletaylor@gmail.com
facebook.com/sarahmicheletaylor
@nutritionsimply
Til Saturday,
Sarah
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