Getting enough water each day plays an important role in overall health.
Why Hydrate?
Your body needs water to survive, and it makes up to 60 percent of your body weight. The benefits of staying hydrated include:
- Temperature regulation
- Joint protection
- Waste removal
- Skin and sensitive tissue defense
- Weight loss promotion
- Defense against chronic diseases
When to Hydrate
In general, thirst is a good indicator of when to hydrate. You can also use urine color as a guide: Anything bright yellow or darker means you need to hydrate. Of course, you will likely get thirsty more quickly and frequently while active and may want to consider hydration before, during and after to avoid dehydration. It’s best to drink moderate amounts of liquid throughout the day rather than consume large amounts all at once. If you’re participating in intense or long duration activities, try to balance water with sport drinks to prevent electrolyte depletion. This can lead to cramping or more severe symptoms in rare instances.
What to Hydrate with
While water is often regarded as the best choice for hydration, the reality is that almost any non-alcoholic liquid is acceptable. Caffeinated beverages produce a moderate diuretic effect, but their net impact is hydrating rather than dehydrating.