As we get into the dog days of summer, I think it’s time we talk seriously about staying hydrated. If I can give you one tip – JUST ONE – for being healthy, feeling great and staying gorgeous, it’s to drink more water.
It’s so simple, but it’s something that even I struggled with every day. Here’s my golden rule: Drink half of your bodyweight in ounces every day in water. A few things to note about this golden rule – If you’re 140lbs, you should drink 70 ounces of water, so the math is pretty simple. But the key phrase in the golden rule is “in water.” A lot of people think that because they’re drinking coffee, tea, juice or soda, they’re staying hydrated. Coffee is a diuretic, which can actually DEHYDRATE you if you drink too much. Juice and soda is full of sugar, which can spike your glycemic index, also not good. So water is always your best bet.
But either you’re counting ounces or glasses, getting enough water can be intimidating. That’s why I’m giving you my 9 tips for staying hydrated!
1. Start the day off right! First thing I do when I get out of bed? Reach for a big glass of water. Right off the bat, I’m replenishing the supplies I sweated out during the night (we all sweat while we sleep, which is why we wake up thirsty).
2. Pace yourself! Having lots of sips during the day is actually better than chugging a huge water bottle, because it gives your system a consistent supply, instead of overloading it sporadically.
3. Take it to the spa! Spa water is one of my favorite treats – And it could NOT be easier. Slice up whatever you have, toss it in a big pitcher and enjoy.
4. If you’re eating, drink water! This is great for digestion too. My rule is if I’m going to eat something, even if it’s a snack, have a glass of water.
5. Toss a bottle in the freezer! There’s nothing I love more than crisp, cold water. I love pulling an almost-frozen bottle out of the freezer on a hot day!
6. Try flavored ice! Having a hard time getting through the day? Try coconut water ice cubes, or freeze water with lemon. As the ice melts, your water gets even more delicious.
7. Put bottles out at dinner! Having a bottle of water no the table not only looks elegant, but allows you to drain your glass again and again!
8. Always keep a bottle with you! I know a sports bottle doesn’t go well with your outfit, but trust me, if you have water near you, you’ll drink it. So keep water handy throughout the day. Have a glass at your desk and a BPA-free bottle in your car.
9. Get an in-home filtration system! The day I got my LifeSource Water system was a total game changer for me. Having quality, filtered, delicious water at my fingertips was the best decision I ever made for my family. No more refiling the pitcher in the fridge (or worse, finding it empty), no more swapping out the filter in my refrigerator door. Truly, having water available with absolutely no hassle was just for me!
