Did you know that you can become just as dehydrated, if not more dehydrated, in cold weather than in warm? Discover the 5 things you should know about winter dehydration.
Did you also know that dehydration has been linked to cognitive decline and fatigue?
If you’re feeling cranky, foggy-headed, or emotionally and physically drained, you just might be suffering from cold weather dehydration. With a few simple steps, you can stay hydrated, happy, clear-headed, and energized this winter.
A study from the University of New Hampshire shows that you are at greater risk of becoming dehydrated in colder weather than in warmer weather. But since people don’t often link cold weather and dehydration, they don’t make the effort to stay hydrated when Jack Frost gets down to business.
What is Dehydration?
Masaru Emoto said dehydration is the “chronic water shortage in the body that causes most diseases of the human body.” In colder weather, people simply don’t feel as thirsty, so they don’t drink as much.
Staying hydrated promotes cardiovascular health, energy, and brain function. It also cleanses your body of toxins and treats ailments. There are many ways to stay hydrated:
Don’t wait until you’re thirsty
By the time you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. And the interesting thing about being dehydrated in cold weather is that you won’t always feel that sense of thirst to remind you to take a drink.
In elementary school, they always taught we should drink 8 glasses of water a day. Which sounds about right. Eight 8-ounce glasses will help keep you hydrated. If cold drinks feel a little less exciting to you right now, try a tasty warm drink like a peppermint bark hot chocolate or mint tea.
Eat water-loving foods
Eating your hydration is not only healthy but taste great. Eating fruit like oranges, strawberries cantaloupe, tomatoes, or watermelon or vegetables like cucumbers, lettuce, or celery. Or by eating meals like various broths or soups is a great way to get your water needs met.
Flavor your water
There are many people who don’t enjoy the taste of water, or who find water to be boring, but it doesn’t have to be! You can infuse your water with refreshing fruits and vegetables. Citrus fruits offer wonderful flavor as do cucumbers or berries or basil and mint. You can also try flavorings that offer nutritional as well as flavor enhancement.
Drink more when you’re under the weather
If you aren’t feeling well, flushing toxins by keeping hydrated is a great way to step onto the road to recovery.
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