I will admit, I was never a fan of drinking plain water. I could hardly choke it down even when exercising but as I got older the concerns from NOT drinking enough water sparked something in me. I purchased a gallon water jug, yes you read that right, a GALLON waterjug and it had the times listed on the outside, super convenient. It was my reminder to drink up. However, I realized that even though I thought I drank enough water before getting the megasized jug, I really wasn't getting in nearly enough. Yikes.  I was a 1/2 pot of coffee drinker for a long time, but that's made with water!, coffee is still considered a diuretic so it encourages the body to expel even more water.  So, I gave up my coffee addiction cold-turkey; I do splurge every-so-often when I travel so I am able to get my little fix in but I don't really miss coffee all that much. I started drinking more seltzer water, most of the time adding lime or lemon, and I carry with me a 40oz water container that gets refilled 2x/day. That is about 2/3 of a gallon. Some days I do hit a gallon of water! The result of more h20? I feel better, more energized, my elimination is alot better (sorry TMI?) and I actually like water (seltzer water to be specific).  I have been a victim of what happens when one doesn't drink enough water and it is lethargy, dry skin, constipation, headaches, zapped energy, bloating, just to name a few.

In this blog post, I will explore some essential tips for drinking more water and discuss the health issues that can come from dehydration. Don't be a victim.

Why is staying hydrated important?

Water is essential for the proper functioning of our bodies, I mean 60% of our body is made of water so how could it NOT be a biggie. It helps regulate body temperature, aids in digestion, and supports the transportation of nutrients and oxygen to cells. Without an adequate intake of water, our bodies can experience a range of negative effects such as dizziness, constipation, fatigue, dry skin, headaches, confusion.

How much water should you drink?

We have grown up knowing the 8x8 rule meaning 8-8oz glasses of water a day and that is a good starting point but individual water needs can vary greatly based age, weight, activity level, and climate. A growing childs water needs will be considerably different than an adult who lives in a tropical climate year round and is actively involved in running and other sports. The old "rule" just doesn't apply anymore.  Listen to your body and drink when you're thirsty. Everyone should be drinking at least 1/2 their body weight so take me as example, I weigh 148 so I should be getting 74oz of water a day. If I refill my 40oz waterjug twice that already puts me at my minimum and just a bit over. However, on the days I am at the gym lifting or doing walk/run intervals or I am outside playing tennis I will need considerably more water to replenish my body. If you're not accustomed to drinking water keep reading for some water tips.

Tips for drinking more water

1. Carry a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day to make it easier to stay hydrated. *Healthy tip - do NOT leave plastic waterbottles in your car on hot days. The chemicals from the plastic leech into the water and you do not want to consume chemicals.

2. Set a reminder on your phone to drink water every 30-60 minutes.

3. Infuse your water with fruits, herbs, or vegetables for added flavor. Be careful not to let the fruit sit in your waterbottle too long, trust me on this one.  Cucumbers, lemons, limes, mint and basil are awesome choices. Water flavorings are also available and a great choice, Mio is one my kids and I like at times but I prefer the water flavorings without artificial dyes.

4. Eat water-rich foods such as cucumbers, watermelon, lettuce, celery, and oranges to increase your overall water intake plus it's refreshing and nutritious.

Need Some More Convincing?

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Nutrition, staying hydrated can help you boost your metabolism and help you maintain your weight (woohoo).

Make a goal by the end of 30 days that you will be drinking a gallon of water a day. Start slowing by cutting back on beverages that are not beneficial and pull water from the body. Replace those beverages with seltzer water or infused water.  At night, hot water and lemon is excellent, you can even add in a bit of ginger and/or turmeric to combat inflammation. Gradually start adding in more water, carrying your waterbottle everywhere and ordering water at dinner in addition to your cocktail (if you partake). 

Remember, water isn't just a beverage - it's a vital piece of a holistic lifestyle. Cheers to hydration and vitality!