I go through waves of drinking 64 oz of water throughout the day (and peeing often) and going to bed thirsty, realizing I've probably only consumed about 24 ounces of water since I woke up. Honestly, I feel a massive difference in my body when I do or don't drink the right amount of water because it's the fluid that lubricates our systems and keeps us healthy and vibrant.
Picture a creek bed during a drought when it's all dried up and cracking. Just go ahead and compare your body to that creek bed because soon enough, without enough water to give you life, you'll start to crack and become uninhabitable. There, I said it.
First thing's first: Do you know how much water you are supposed to be drinking each day? Anywhere between 64 oz and the amount of half your body weight (in pounds). For example, if you're 180 pounds, you'll need anywhere between 64 and 90 oz of water per day (depending on your physical activity, etc.)
Now that you are more aware of how much you should consume, let's figure out how to recognize dehydration. Catching it in its early stages is key to staying healthy, so let's start being more aware by recognizing the obvious signs: dry mouth or just good ol' thirst. You can also look out for these other signs of mild to severe dehydration (in that order):
- low energy or fatigue, loss of muscle strength and endurance
- hunger (often, we're just thirsty)
- headaches, lower brain function and memory
- dark, strong smelling urine
- low blood pressure
- increased/rapid heart rate
Lastly, here are some great tips to increase your water consumption!
Simple suggestion: Just start by trying ONE of the tips below. I can tell you from personal experience that I started drinking significantly more water just by implementing #3 below (I chose this water bottle - game changer.)
- Drink one glass of water first thing in the morning
- Keep a large pitcher of water in the fridge at home or on your desk at work
- Get a water bottle that encourages you to drink a ton of water
- Drink 8 oz water before and after exercising; drink small sips from a water bottle during exercise
- Keep a bottle or glass of water by your bed and in your car
- Add lemon, orange, cucumber, strawberries, fresh mint (whatever!) to make it flavorful AND pretty (which will make you want to drink more of it)
- Add a therapeutic grade citrus essential oil to your sparkling water or herbal teas
I hope this helps you realize your need for this timeless, all-occasion drink and gives you ways to consume more of it! Now go lubricate your body!