A Busy Person’s Guide to Staying Hydrated

Whether you’re an athlete or an office employee, chances are your lifestyle is fast-paced and on-the-go. Our modern way of living poses unique challenges to staying hydrated and healthy at any level of physical activity. And, because dehydration can lead to fatigue, headaches, and impaired concentration, among other health concerns, it’s important that we find actionable solutions. Read on to learn more about proper hydration and how to make the most of your water intake with products from your local Market of Choice.

Why Staying Hydrated is Important

Proper hydration is essential for many bodily functions and offers numerous benefits for both body and mind.

One primary role of water is to regulate body temperature. When you sweat, your body uses water to cool down and prevent overheating. Hydration also helps maintain blood volume and circulation, ensuring that oxygen and nutrients make it to your cells.

Aside from temperature regulation and circulation, staying hydrated supports digestion by aiding in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. It also helps lubricate joints, reducing the risk of injury, and is essential for healthy skin by maintaining moisture levels and promoting supple skin.

How Much Water Do You Need?

The answer is, it depends. While most people need about six to eight cups of water a day, your individual need is determined by several factors, including age, sex, weight, activity level, health and environment. Given these factors, it’s not surprising to learn that many of us are not getting enough water. Here are a few things to consider when calculating your individual water needs:

• Physical Activity: If you’re exercising, you should increase your water intake. If participating in lengthy stretches of physical activity such as marathons, you may need to replenish both water and sodium loss.
• Temperature: When outside temperatures soar, you may feel thirstier faster and need to adjust your water intake.
• Age: Older adults often have a decreased thirst sensation, making it necessary to drink water even when you’re not feeling thirsty.

Tips for Staying Hydrated Throughout the Day

Proper hydration supports overall health, muscle and tissue strength, even skin elasticity and vibrancy. And, getting enough water helps muscles recover after vigorous exercise and helps to prevent leg cramps. Here are a few tips for staying hydrated throughout your day:

Add water-rich foods to your diet: The next time you’re browsing the produce aisle, pick up some water-rich foods like watermelon, oranges, strawberries, cucumbers, celery and lettuce. These super foods provide water and essential vitamins and minerals.

Make it a routine: Create a hydration program that fits your lifestyle. Start first thing in the morning, drinking a full glass of water before breakfast and make a habit of drinking a glass of water before each meal. Carry a reusable water bottle with you and refill as needed.

Remind yourself: Set reminders on your phone or use hydration apps to remind yourself to drink water at regular intervals.

Make the most of every sip: Add hydration support products like Ultima Replenisher, Trace Minerals and Liquid IV to your water to help replace the electrolytes and vitamins that get lost through perspiration, breathing and working or living in air-conditioned environments. Plus, these delicious additives make your water taste extra yummy, encouraging you to drink more. You can find hydration support products like these and others like them that don’t contain artificial dyes or aspartame in the Whole Health Department of your local Market of Choice.