The Ins and Outs of Hydration

The summer sun is in full swing! Whether you are spending your days harvesting your garden, relaxing at the beach, walking for exercise, or finally having that yard sale, you are no stranger to sweating in the sweltering heat. Hydration is top priority in these summer months. Besides perspiration, your body loses water through respiration, urination, and bowel movements. Here are some benefits of proper hydration to keep you healthy both inside and outside.

Inside

Drinking enough water keeps your memory sharp. Studies show that people are able to recall new information better when they are properly hydrated. If you don’t drink enough water, your heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout your body which makes normal activities more difficult to manage. Kidneys need enough water so waste can be properly flushed out of the body. Having enough water prevents constipation. Drinking water instead of sugary drinks can also aid in weight loss both by reducing caloric intake and increasing your metabolic rate.

Outside

The skin is the largest organ your body has. And it is the one everyone can see! Keep your skin hydrated by treating it gently. Avoid cleansers that contain alcohol as an ingredient. Along with hydration, wearing sunscreen or other protection from the sun can prevent your skin from signs of aging. Using a good quality moisturizer after bathing can also boost the hydration level of your skin.

Are you getting enough water?

Some experts recommend drinking between half an ounce to an ounce of water for every pound you weigh. If remembering to hydrate is a struggle for you, try one of these tips for keeping hydration forefront in your mind.

Carry a water bottle with you at all times. Buy a water bottle that you love to motivate yourself to keep it around. Know the amount of ounces your water bottle holds so you can keep track of your daily total.
Already drink a lot of water but need to drink more? Increase your water by just an ounce or two every few days until you have reached your water goal.
Use ice in each bottle or glass to keep the water cool and refreshing and more appealing.
If you are weaning yourself off of sugary drinks or find the taste of water unappealing, slice some fruit into your water to add some flavor and a vitamin boost. Try cucumber and mint, lemon and freshly grated ginger, or frozen watermelon chunks.