How much water should you drink a day to have water wellness?
You’ve probably heard the advice to drink eight glasses of water a day. That’s easy to remember, and it’s a reasonable goal.
Most healthy people can stay hydrated by drinking water and other fluids whenever they feel thirsty. For some people, fewer than eight glasses a day might be enough. But other people might need more.
Why Water Wellness Matters
Plain and simple. To function properly, all the cells and organs of the body need water. Here are the reasons why we need all the water we can get!
- Water lubricates our joints. Cartilage contains around 80% water. Long-term dehydration can reduce the joints’ shock-absorbing ability.
- Forms saliva and mucus. Saliva helps us digest our food and keeps the mouth, nose, and eyes moist. It also reduces cavities.
- Delivers oxygen throughout the body. Our blood is more than 90% water and carries oxygen throughout the body.
- Boosts skin health and beauty. With hydration, the skin becomes less vulnerable to skin disorders and premature wrinkling.
- Cushions the brain. Dehydration can affect brain structure and function. It can lead to problems with thinking and reasoning.
- It regulates body temperature. Water stored in the skin comes to the surface as sweat. As it evaporates, it cools the body.
- Our digestive system depends on it. The bowel needs water to work properly.
- Water helps to maintain our blood pressure. A lack of water can cause blood to become thicker, increasing our blood pressure.
- The airways need it. When dehydrated, airways are restricted by the body in an effort to minimize water loss. This can make asthma and allergies worse.
- It makes minerals and nutrients accessible. These dissolve in water, which makes it possible for them to reach the different parts of our body.
- Prevents kidney damage. The kidneys regulate fluid in the body. In fact, insufficient water can lead to kidney stones and other problems.
- Boosts your performance during exercise. Consuming more water enhances performance during strenuous activity.
- Weight loss. Drinking water before meals helps to prevent overeating.
Water Wellness Tips & Tricks
So now you know why you need to drink all the water you can get! But it’s easy to forget and difficult to be enthused about a mostly tasteless drink.
That being said, drinking water doesn’t have to be stressful or boring. There are plenty of ways to make your journey to water wellness fun!
In the first place, who says that you can only get your water out of a glass or bottle? There are plenty of delicious foods out there that will help you to stay hydrated. Add fruits and vegetables with a high water content to your shopping list. Some top picks include cucumber (96% water), zucchini (95% water), watermelon (92% water), and grapefruit (91% water).
Next, add some excitement to your water with slices of fresh fruit, mint leaves, ginger, or other tasty herbs. It’ll keep you from getting bored and it tastes great!
Try using an app like waterlogged to track your water intake. People love seeing the visual representation of progress. It’s encouraging to see as your goals are reached.
Or
What do you check more than anything else as you go about your day? If you’re like most, it’s your phone. So, why not use that to your advantage? Set a reminder on your phone so every time you pick it up, you’re reminded to HYDRATE!!!
If you use a straw, you’ll find yourself guzzling water much quicker than usual. Who knows why? Maybe it’s because drinking water with a straw is more enjoyable. Maybe it’s just easier.
If you’re not a fan of straws, your water bottle can be your greatest ally and tool. Mark times on your water bottle so you know how much you should be drinking by a specific time. Furthermore, you can write words of encouragement on the side to keep you smiling!
In addition to this, pick out a fun water bottle that suits your personality. A conversation starter, to make drinking water fun and cool.
Get spicy to boost your water intake.
What’s the first thing you reach for when your mouth is on fire because there was a surprise hot pepper in your food? Probably water. If you can handle it, add some spice to your diet. You may find yourself drinking a lot more water than usual.
I hope you have enjoyed this post and are on your journey to water wellness. And remember, Wellness looks good on you!
If you like this post, you might also enjoy our post titled Oh, that Mouth of Yours. A tongue & cheek look at understanding the importance of good oral hygiene.
