Having a glass of water sounds like a completely uninspiring exercise in winter. The cold makes us reach for something a bit more rich and heartier and we seem to neglect our need for water. Having a healthy water intake in winter is exceptionally important, as the air is drier. Many of us are currently in an office space that has the heater on for most of the day and then going home to switch on a heater (and an electric blanket). Not only does this significantly dry out your skin, lips and hair, but if you’re not hydrating your body enough, this contributes to your body feeling sluggish, your mood and energy dipping, and your mental performance slowing down. Furthermore, the likelihood of your body being able to fight the common cold/flu, diminishes when you’re not hydrated enough as your body struggles to flush out all the yucky viruses and bacteria that could potentially make you sick.
In winter its quite difficult to notice when your body is dehydrated. In summer your body sweats, you’re a lot more active and the weather is warmer which results in you being thirstier, avoiding dehydration. Having noted the importance of staying hydrated in winter, here are a few tips on how you can do so:
- Have your water with you all the time and where you can easily see it; in your car, at your desk, on your kitchen counter. If it’s in sight, you’re more likely to drink it.
- Try to have your water in a clear water bottle. This helps you stay focused and even motivated because you’re able to see how much water you’ve had for the day.
- If the thought of having cold water puts you off, you can either drink it at room temperature or drink it warm.
- If you’re struggling, try infusing your water with herbs or fruit.
- Have soup and vegetable broths. Not only do these warm your soul, but they’re great at filling you up and hydrating you.
- Increase your veggie intake of veggies that have a high water content. Vegetables such as lettuce, cucumber, celery, tomatoes, peppers and spinach are said to be packed with a lot of water.
- Coffee, fizzy drinks and alcohol don’t count as hydration, unfortunately. They dehydrate you even more. Substitute your coffee with herbal teas that you’re going to enjoy and you’re most likely to drink.
Cheers to staying hydrated this winter 😉
South Africa
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