Staying hydrated is easier in summer. The side effects of higher temperatures make our bodies thirst for water. During the colder seasons drinking water is a challenge as they are no external motivators. However, our bodies need to be hydrated at all times, especially in winter. Visible symptoms that you may be dehydrated in winter are headaches, chapped lips, nosebleeds, and dry coughs.
Why Drinking Water Is Important?
Our bodies are made up of 60% of water. Water is used in all cells, organs, and tissues to regulate and maintain all bodily functions. Our bodies lose plenty of water due to sweat, digestion, and urination. This makes it important for us to keep hydrated during the day.
How Much Water Do We Need?
There is no hard and fast rule on how much water people need to meet their daily quotas. People are different, some may need 1,5, others 2 liters. Another useful measurement is anything from 6 to 8 glasses a day. People who are active and in good health do get enough fluids during the day. The increased physical activity puts a demand for more water. One of the quickest ways to check if you are drinking enough water is by looking at your urine. If it is clear, it is a sign you are hydrated. If it is dark then you may need to increase your water intake.
Practical Ways To Drinking More Water In Winter.
Set A Goal And Make It Routine.
Firstly, determine how much water you need to drink in a day. Drinking two liters daily would be a great win for many people, especially in winter. You can track yourself by using an App or have a 500 milliliters water bottle near your workstation. One trick that works for me is to get a glass of water with every coffee/tea I drink. This has helped me to not only drink more water but also to reduce my caffeine intake. Find a routine that works for you. It could be having a glass with every meal or after every bathroom break. Do that routine until it becomes a habit.
Drink It Warm.
Try drinking warm water. This may help you increase your daily intake. Instead of drinking another coffee or tea cup, have warmer water. If the idea of drinking warm water is not for you. You can try drinking hot soup. Soups normally contain a lot of water and may help you stay hydrated during the cold winter nights.
Add Some Natural Flavour.
The neutral taste of water becomes more evident during colder seasons. Many people do not “feel” thirsty which makes them not want to drink water. Adding fruits, lemon, natural mint leaves, and ginger may give your water some taste. Also trying adding sparkling water to the mix. Try not to overdo it with sparkling water, everything in moderation.
Get More Active And Drink Herbal Teas.
Teas are a great way to help you reach your water quota. There are many benefits of teas such as green tea. Green tea is filled with antioxidants which may improve brain function, fat loss, and lower heart disease. Some people call teas delicious water. Teas may help people stay hydrated during winter. As a rule of thumb, your teacup numbers should not be more than your water intake. A 1:1 ratio should be okay.
Finally, get active. In colder weather, we want to snuggle up in blankets next to the fireplace or heater. However, sweating will help you to drink more water. I have realized that I drink more water during my exercise days. When it is my rest day, it is a challenge to reach my water goal. Your body is constantly using and losing water. It is important to make sure we stay hydrated. One last benefit of being hydrated is helping you eat less. Thirst sensation is like hunger to the brain. Many people interpret thirst as hunger and end up overeating. Staying hydrated will help you to maintain a healthy weight.