The Hows and Whys of Staying Hydrated

Staying hydrated is one of the easiest, most rewarding things we can do to improve our health. Water is thought to help prevent headaches, energize and help us pay attention. It is thought to help people think more clearly while simultaneously improving heart health. If you have an upset, stomach drink water. Water binds with fiber in the large intestine helping digestion.

With winter’s dry air quickly approaching and flu season just around the corner, it’s even more important to stay hydrated.

Since elementary school we’ve been encouraged to drink eight cups of water a day. It’s no secret that water is good for you; we’re literally made of it. An adult’s body is nearly 60 percent water while an infant’s body is made of nearly 80 percent water.

There are plenty of reasons to stay hydrated. Here’s how you can make it easier and more fun.

1. Make It Flashy

There’s always at least one water bottle guy. You know, the person with the mega REI Cyclone Water Bottle. Their water bottle is decked out with national park stickers and random pieces of duct tape. It doesn’t matter where they are — gym, work, home, bar, movie — they’ve got their trusty water bottle. You’re not sure why but you want to be friends with this person. They give off an easy, effortless vibe all while being clearly health conscious and environmentally friendly. Purchasing an easy-to-tote water bottle is a great way to keep hydrated. Simply having water with you will encourage you to drink more.

2. Add Bubbles

If tap or still water isn’t your thing, take a nod from the Europeans and carbonate it. In most of Western Europe it’s difficult to find a person who doesn’t own a SodaStream, for carbonating water. Sparkling water will keep you hydrated just like still water but it has other benefits, too! Carbonated water is known to help indigestion and heartburn. Drinking bubbly water may also help keep you full. Carbonated water contains gas bubbles, which will take up more room in your stomach.

3. Dress It Up

Perhaps you simply do not like the taste of plain water. Luckily, there are loads of flavored water recipes to keep you hydrated while satisfying your taste buds. Adding anything from strawberries and cucumbers to a simple lemon may encourage you to drink more. Consider adding ginger, honey, and lemon to piping hot water for a drink that will keep you hydrated, alert and warm. It’s an excellent choice for fall and winter.

There are countless ways to keep our bodies refreshed. When you find a hydration method that works, you may find you enjoy being the water bottle guy or gal.

What works for you? What are some of your favorite drinks that highlight our lifeline and good friend, H2O? —Alex