11 Jan Hydration
Posted at 14:35h
in
Heath Tips
by Jillian Ruffo
Many people are so busy that they barely have time to eat, let alone pause for a water break, and you may find you often go hours and hours without quenching your thirst. But staying hydrated has real advantages, including helping you maintain your energy and focus so you can operate more efficiently, so it’s important to give your drinking habits the attention they deserve. Here are some simple ways to make fueling up with fluid throughout the day a little easier:
• Always carry a water bottle, and if you have desk job, always keep one at your desk. If you have a bottle within arms reach, it’s very likely that you’ll mindlessly sip from it throughout the day, without having to make a conscious effort.
• When you’re feeling frazzled or hazy, grab a glass of cold water. Studies show that people instantly feel more alert after drinking H2O. It’s a simple, healthy way to snap out of a midday slump.
• Sip on a mug of herbal tea every evening. If you make this a habit, you’ll add an extra cup of fluid to your tally every single day. On top of that, this relaxing ritual is a wonderful way to de-stress at the end of the day.
• Eat a diet rich in whole foods. By eating water-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, and yogurt, you’ll automatically up your fluid intake. On the other hand, processed snack foods like chips, crackers, and baked goods have minimal water content.
If you’re an elderly adult or a caretaker for one, it’s especially important to pay attention to hydration. Aging impairs the body’s natural thirst mechanisms, which makes it easier to become dehydrated. It may be helpful to fill up a big water bottle (at least 1 liter) at the beginning of the day, with the goal of emptying it by the end of the day. The water bottle is a physical reminder to drink even if you’re not thirsty.
