Hydrated, Let’s Talk About Hydration

At this time of year, everybody talks about the need to stay hydrated. While that is certainly good advice, nobody talks about why you need to stay hydrated or how much water you need to hydrate yourself.

Our bodies are comprised of approximately 60% water (the percentages are higher for our brain and blood). When we are hydrated, our hearts pump blood more efficiently, we think clearly and our muscles work better. Dehydration, even just a one or two percent decrease, impedes our ability to do think and act.

The old rule that states you need eight 8-ounce cups of water sounds reasonable and is very attainable. It is also not grounded in science. As better rule might be to drink enough that you have to go to the bathroom every 2-4 hours. If you are properly hydrated, your urine will be light yellow. The total amount of water needed per day varies from person to person and is dependent on activity levels and the weather.

Drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated. However, your body can also obtain water from eating fruits and vegetables. Avoid drinking alcohol and having more than a cup of caffeinated beverages, as they will cause your body to lose water.

Don’t wait until you are thirsty or starting to feel the effects of dehydration. All day, every day, sip on a tall, cool glass of water!