We Need to Talk About Staying Hydrated During the Winter
Are you getting enough water?
I’m willing to bet that on brisk, snowy, 30-degree days the last thing on your mind is a tall glass of water. But it probably should be.
Most of us do a really good job of drinking water (and eating hydrating foods like fresh fruits and veggies) when the weather is warm. Our bodies remind us that we need the H2O by perspiring – and making us feel thirsty. But when it’s cold outside (and we don’t feel as thirsty), dehydration often goes unnoticed. Add to that the fact that breathing in cold, dry air depletes our bodies of fluids and it’s easy to see why hydration is so important during the winter months.
So how do you prevent cold-weather dehydration? Here are four easy ways to increase your water intake.
Matt Armendariz, 2014, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved
Add some low-fat yogurt to your breakfast.
You may not realize it but most low-fat yogurts are 85-90% water. Start your day by adding some to your smoothie, making a delicious chia pudding cup or by layering yogurt with fruit and granola for a parfait.
Drink water before caffeine.
For lots of us, coffee or tea is a morning must – which makes it the perfect incentive to drink your water! Try polishing off a full water bottle before allowing yourself caffeine. Many bottles are 16 ounces or more, putting you well on your way to achieving your daily hydration goals first thing in the morning. In need of a new bottle? Here are 10 great options.
David Malosh
Add a salad to your lunch.
Leafy greens like lettuce, kale and spinach are all hydrating. Boost your daily water intake by adding a simple salad to your afternoon meal. Need to change up your traditional green veggie routine? Try a broccoli salad instead – broccoli is 89% water!
Give your water a boost of flavor.
There’s no substitute for good, old-fashioned water – but drinking eight cups of plain H2O can be boring. That’s why I love infusing mine with fresh fruit and herbs. Need a few ideas to get you started? Try Strawberry-Cucumber, Watermelon-Mint or Pineapple-Mint-Ginger.
Related Content
