Water is by far the best way to stay hydrated, but it can get really boring trying to get to your optimal hydration levels. Human beings are made of about 65% water, and if you can remember your grade 9 science class, water is required as a catalyst in many metabolic reactions.
Long term dehydration leads to chronic hydration issues, which brings with it a whole host of nasty symptoms like pain, headaches, join stiffness, issues sleeping, lack of energy, and problems focusing.
This kind of dehydration may even slow down your metabolism and reduce endocrine function. You will also need more than the recommended intake of fluids if you are exercising regularly, breastfeeding, are ill (even more if you have symptoms of the flu), consuming diuretics, and if the temperature is really high. 8 glasses of water a day (at about 8oz each glass) is the minimum recommendation for optimal hydration. Depending on your level of activity and metabolism, you may likely need even more. You can offset your water needs by trying these 5 other ways to stay hydrated.
- Adding vegetables that naturally contain more water is a great way to supplement your water needs. Not only are you increasing your hydration, you are also adding nutrients, vitamins and minerals, and fiber as well. Try cucumber, celery, radishes, tomatoes, and lettuce.
- Eat some fruit. Many fruits are high in water content, and are a way to satisfy your sweet cravings at the same time, without any processed sugar. Fruits high in water are melons, grapefruits, oranges, strawberries, and kiwi, and offer a delicious way to increase hydration.
- Coconut water is a natural beverage that is harvested from young coconuts. They are high in electrolyte and potassium, which is vital for nerve and muscle function. Electrolytes imbalances occur when you are severely dehydrated, and also when you drink too much water as well.
- Smoothies contain a lot of water filled fruits and vegetables, which means that you can quench your thirst and give your body a boost of vitamins, minerals and fiber. Smoothies are nutrient packed, and can be a way to hide vegetables that you don’t like as much either. A smoothie in the morning can break your night’s fast gently, and a balanced smoothie won’t give you an energy crash like coffee and tea.
- Green tea. Loaded with antioxidants, green tea may help lower your risk of cancer, increase mental focus and clarity, and even help increase your metabolism.
Water is still the best way to stay hydrated, so moderation is important when consuming the above alternatives. They don’t replace water, but do help to offset your daily water requirements. For a delicious way to stay hydrated, come into FRESH to try one of our FRESH squeezes, smoothies, or green tea. Find your closest location here.
