by Dr. Marita Schauch, Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre
After this summer’s intense heat, it’s more important than ever to talk hydration, but how much do you really know about the importance of water for our health?
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 concerns could be improved by simply being properly hydrated. Don’t feel good? Drink a glass of water and wait five minutes. I promise you something will have improved.
The Perks of Being Well Hydrated:
• 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.
• May help with weight loss – Studies suggest 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.
• 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. Water’s 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 one to three litres of water a day depending on their 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.
What about other beverages? Caffeine-free tea, 100% fruit juice and coconut water all offer some hydration benefits. Limit coffee and caffeinated tea, soda and alcohol as they will actually dehydrate you.
As an aside regarding carbonated water – I still encourage mostly still water as for some, too much carbonated water may cause digestive issues such as bloating and gas.
Tips to Stay Hydrated:
• Infused water – As an extra incentive to drink more water, you can infuse it with fruit and herbs.
• 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.
Enjoy the rest of your summer!
