Tips And Tricks To Staying Properly Hydrated
UPDATE: This is an Update of a Blog originally published in March 2023
Staying properly hydrated is a key component of overall wellbeing. Did you know that our bodies are composed of about 60% water? It’s true. However, this number can vary based on age, gender, and activity level. Proper hydration keeps our bodies energized and healthy by regulating our body temperature, lubricating joints and muscles, flushing out toxins, improving cognitive function, and even giving our skin that vibrant glow we crave. Drinking enough water also helps prevent kidney stones and supports overall kidney health.
But how much water should we be drinking every day? And how can we make sure we are drinking enough? Let’s explore in this week’s Wellness Wednesday blog.
How Much Water Should We Drink?
The amount of water each person needs varies, depending on several factors, including age, gender, body weight, climate, sodium intake, and activity level. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces every day. So, if you weigh 150 pounds, aim for 75 ounces of water a day. This easy calculation can help ensure you're staying properly hydrated and supporting your body’s total wellbeing.
Now the question is, how do you ensure you’re drinking enough ounces a day? With a little planning, staying properly hydrated can be easily integrated into your daily routine. The key is to work it into your daily routine. You’ll be surprised at how quickly sipping throughout the day becomes second nature, and your body will thank you for it!
Technology to Help Keep You Hydrated
In today’s digital age, staying on top of hydration has never been easier. Apps like My Water or Drink Water help track your daily intake and send reminders to keep sipping throughout the day. You can also track your hydration goals and see your progress in real time.
Here are some other tips for staying properly hydrated:
Hydration Tips:
Keep Water Nearby: Always have a water bottle within arm’s reach so you can sip as you go about your day.
Add Flavor: If plain water isn't your thing, try adding slices of fruit or cucumber to make it more enjoyable.
Incorporate Electrolytes: If you’re sweating more than usual, such as after exercise, consider adding electrolytes to help replenish lost minerals.
Hydrate with Food: Many fruits and vegetables, like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges, contain high water content and are great for hydration.
Additionally, it’s important to know how to spot the signs of dehydration, so you can take action before your body feels the full effects.
Recognizing the Signs of Dehydration
Dehydration can sneak up on us if we're not paying attention. It happens when the body doesn’t get enough fluids or loses too much through activities like sweating, illness, or exercise. Early signs of dehydration include:
Thirst
Dry mouth
Dark-colored urine
Fatigue
Headache
Dizziness or confusion
If you don’t address dehydration, it can lead to more severe issues, such as kidney damage or organ dysfunction.
Proper hydration is critical for maintaining the overall health of your body’s systems. If you’re unsure about how much water you should be drinking or need tips on hydration for your specific lifestyle, don’t hesitate to ask your chiropractor or healthcare provider. As Easewell Chiropractic, our mission is to Cultivate True Health, and staying properly hydrated is a key component of that along with chiropractic care. If you would like to learn more about Cultivating True Health, click here to book an appointment at one of our locations. Grab your water bottle and make hydration a priority!
