Staying hydrated in winter is essential to maintaining your health. However, it's usually more difficult during this time of year to realize you're becoming dehydrated. In summer, the warm temperatures make sweat very noticeable, which signals you need to have a drink. People don't notice their bodies sweating as often in winter, so they tend to not drink as many fluids - this can lead to dehydration. It's important to keep your body well-hydrated all year long, so here are some tips you can use to remember to consume more fluids:
Find a water bottle
Carrying a water bottle with you serves as an excellent reminder to drink more water throughout the day. When purchasing a bottle, make sure you choose one you really like - this way you'll be more likely to use it. Water bottles come in a variety of designs and styles. You might prefer to measure the amount of water you consume each day, so find one that notes the ounces on the side. On the other hand, a bottle with a filter might be important to you. Whatever you prefer, pick the bottle that's best for you so it'll get plenty of use.
Set reminders
You can use technology for a variety of tasks, so why not use it to increase your water intake? Set reminders on your calendar throughout the day that notify you to drink more water, or add it to your to-do list. Either option will serve as a reminder and encourage you to take an extra sip of water no matter what you're doing.
Add flavor
Sometimes it can be difficult to drink a lot of water, because there isn't really much flavor. Luckily, this can easily be remedied - create tasty, yet healthy beverages by adding fruit to a glass of water. This will infuse the liquid with a hint of strawberry, orange or lemon flavor so the drink isn't quite so bland. You'll love the added taste - and the little snack that comes with it.
Spice up plain water by adding fruit and herbs to the mix.
Drink before a meal
Consuming a glass of water before meals is beneficial for several reasons. First, it ensures you're staying hydrated. Second, it will help curb your appetite a bit so you don't feel as hungry when you sit down to eat - this will help you stick to proper proportions and maintain a healthy weight. Start sipping on your beverage as you're preparing your meal. This way, you don't have to guzzle the whole cup right before you eat.
Eat water-heavy foods
You increase the amount of fluids you consume each day by adding water-rich foods to your diet. This includes a lot of fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, watermelon, zucchini, oranges and grapefruit. If you're not the best at drinking several glasses of water every day, then simply make sure you're at least eating one of these foods with each meal. This will help you increase your water intake and stay hydrated.
Dry mouth, headaches, constipation and thirst are often signs of mild dehydration - you can usually treat these by consuming more water and a sports drink. However, severe dehydration symptoms include low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, fever and sunken eyes. If you experience any of these signs, you should see a doctor, so make sure your medical health insurance is up-to-date this winter, just in case.