Most people do not drink enough water. By the time one is thirsty, they are most likely dehydrated. The key is to keep properly hydrated.
- Know that the eight glass rule isn’t necessarily for everyone. Weight and exercise also factor into how much you should drink a day so figure out how much water you need a day with this nifty water-drinking calculator!
- If you are not used to drinking lots of water, take it slow!
- Make water accessible! Buy yourself a water purifying system. You can easily and inexpensively buy a Brita so that there is never an excuse not to pour yourself a glass.
- Plan ahead! If you know you’re going to be out and about all day, have a bottle to go filled with water.
- Drinking water all day can get a little boring, so add some fruit to your next glass! You can try lime, lemon or even cucumber.
- Keep it cold! Cold water takes energy for your body to regulate the temperature and burns calories!
- If all else fails, set a timer to remind yourself to drink water.
- Another option is to eat water enriched foods like watermelon or tomatoes, both over 90 percent water.
Stay hydrated this summer!
-Jodi Schaeffer, MPH, RD, LDN