Michelle Wilson, wellness program manager
The wonders of water
Summer is in full swing and it’s getting hot out there. When the temperature heats up, many of us turn to sweetened beverages to cool off, but did you know that water is the best drink for your body to keep you hydrated?
Often, when we think we are hungry, we are actually thirsty. When our body isn’t getting enough water we can become dehydrated without knowing it. Dehydration can cause fatigue, constipation, hunger, headaches, joint pain, irritability, and depression, among other things. Water has many benefits for our bodies. It flushes out waste and toxins, regulates our body temperature, reduces swelling, improves digestion, helps with weight loss, and helps our skin look healthier. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it is especially important to drink water when you are in a hot climate, are being physically active, or are running a fever.
Set a goal to drink only water during the day
Here are some ideas to make it easy:
- Take a water bottle with you wherever you go
- If you prefer cold water, keep a freezer-safe water bottle in the freezer and fill it with water before you leave your house
- Begin every morning with a big glass of water and drink water before you feel thirsty
Tip: Add a slice of lemon, lime, or orange to your water if you like citrus flavors, or a slice of cucumber or a mint leaf to give it a little extra flavor.
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