The Foundation of Water
Last month I kicked off my series on the Foundations of Health with The Foundation of Sleep.
This month we are going to dive into the Foundation of Water, right on time for the kick off of Summer.
So slap on a hat and grab your water wings, because we’re going to the deep end.
Why is Hydration So Important?
As many probably already know, we are in fact 70% water. For this reason and this reason alone, you can see why being hydrated is important. Every single one of your bodies’ cells contains water, and needs it to function.
Some major functions include flushing toxins and waste from the body, regulating body temperature, and lubrication within the body, but water really plays a role in every function in your body.
Without it, we die. With not enough of it, our bodies don’t function properly.
So many common health and wellness complaints could be improved by simply being properly hydrated.
Don’t feel good? Drink a glass of water and wait 5 minutes. I promise you something will have improved.
Let’s Dive in to How Being Hydrated Can Change Your Life
Improves Digestion- Proper hydration leads to optimal nutrient absorption and helps break down food properly, as well as relieves digestive issues like constipation or difficult bowel movements.
Supports a healthy Immune system - Water helps your body flush out toxins and bacteria.
Makes You More Beautiful- Drinking water is probably one of the best things you can do for your appearance as hydration boosts collagen levels which directly impacts the glow and shine of your skin and hair.
Helps with Weight Loss- Studies have linked higher fat loss when exercising with levels of hydration. It’s also easy to confuse thirst and hunger cues, particularly with sugar cravings. You might find staying well hydrated has you reaching for sugary treats less often.
Improves Mood- Dehydration linked with higher levels of fatigue and anxiety.
Boosts Energy and Performance- Higher levels of hydration have been shown to boost your metabolism which makes more energy available for your body to use, it also helps better circulate oxygen in your blood which will make you feel more energized.
Improves Brain Function- Not drinking enough water can impact your focus, alertness, and short term memory. Waters' gift of increasing nutrient absorption and oxygenated blood flow to the brain will positively affect your mental faculties.
How Much Water Should You Be Drinking?
On average, most people should aim to drink about 1-3 litres of water a day depending on your health history and activity levels.
You’ll need to up your intake in hot weather, and when exercising.
Remember to pay attention to the signs your body is giving you. If you’re thirsty, that’s usually an indicator that you’re already starting to be dehydrated. Pay attention to the colour of your urine throughout the day as well. It should be pale or colorless.
What About Other Beverages?
Caffeine free tea, juice, milk, coconut water, and milk alternatives all offer hydration benefits. Limit coffee and caffeinated tea, soda, alcohol, and energy drinks as they will actually dehydrate you.
Tips to Stay Hydrated
Infused Water- As an extra incentive to drink more water, you can infuse it with fruit and herbs. Check out this post for some amazing flavour ideas.
Carry a Reusable bottle with you everywhere
Keep Track of Your intake and pace it through the day. Try to reach the halfway mark by halfway through your day and so on.
Stay tuned over the next few months for the rest of this foundational series, covering The Foundation of Diet and The Foundation of Movement and remember to lay your foundation first.