the importance of proper hydration for performance and everyday life
When we think about hydration and dehydration, we typically relate it to athletic performance. And yes, it’s vital to take in plenty of water and electrolytes if you’re physically active, however, proper hydration is important in everyday life as well.
It's a fact that most people are not drinking enough water on a daily basis.
You've probably heard that you should drink eight 8-ounce (237-mL) glasses of water per day (the 8×8 rule). Although there's little science behind this rule, staying hydrated, specifically in the morning hours, is important. I drink 20oz of water every morning before my feet even hit the floor. Drinking the correct amount of water early in the morning has a profound effect on your entire day.
Risk factors for high blood pressure and high cholesterol numbers are elevated among those who don't drink enough water.
Here are a few tips to keep you well hydrated, as well as improve your overall health:
-
Don't wait till you're thirsty to drink. By the time you feel thirsty, you're already slightly dehydrated
-
Drink 20oz of water first thing in the morning
-
Flavor your water
-
Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables.
-
Be aware of the signs of dehydration
-
Limit alcohol and caffeine intake
Hydration is necessary for your overall health and the body is built to maintain ideal hydration levels. This being said, the function of the body gets more complicated when exercise is thrown into the picture.
Water alone may be sufficient if you’re not super active or competing in athletic events, but if you are or spend a lot of time in the heat and therefore have high sweat production, then you could benefit from adding electrolytes to your water.
All humans need electrolytes to survive. Many automatic processes in the body rely on a small electric current to function, and electrolytes provide this charge. Electrolytes interact with each other and the cells in your tissues, nerves, and muscles.
I’m a fan of LMNT. It’s a sodium based electrolyte powder that I add to my water everyday. I also use EBOOST, a BCAA powder that I'll drink pre, during, or post workout.
Whether you’re an athlete or not, here are some reasons why you should be focusing on your hydration for an optimal everyday lifestyle.
-
Youthful appearance.
-
Increases energy levels.
-
Things like alcohol and caffeine dehydrate you, so you need to make sure you’re taking in enough water and/or electrolytes to offset these two substances.
-
Decreases hunger (weight loss).
-
Improves physical performance.
-
Helps prevent hangovers.
-
Can aid weight loss.
One of the fastest and easiest ways to look instantly younger is hydration, and who wouldn’t want that? Yes, it’s as simple as keeping your body hydrated.
Proper hydration is essential for our health and the prevention of many illnesses. Understand the signs of dehydration to ensure that you’re keeping your body fully hydrated on a daily basis.
Follow Greg to learn more about how he's impacting the lives of The Midlife Male
