M9 Hydration
HYDRATION
THE IMPORTANCE OF DRINKING ENOUGH WATER
Your body depends on water to survive. Around 60% of the body is made up of water; blood is 90% water. Every cell, tissue and organ needs it to work properly. Your body uses water to maintain its temperature, remove waste and even to lubricate your joints.
WITHOUT ENOUGH WATER, YOUR BODY WILL STOP WORKING PROPERLY.
If you're even 1% dehydrated you can see negative consequences, the first usually being fatigue or lower energy. This can impair your mood, energy and brain functioning--it can lower concentration, alertness and short-term memory.
The easiest way to tell if you're hydrated is to look at your urine; it should be colorless to light yellow. If it looks very yellow, bright or amber it is time to drink some water immediately!
Staying hydrated reduces eating intake by filling up the stomach. It reduces hunger and makes you feel full; a natural appetite suppressant!
DRINK WATER FIRST
If you’re like most people, the first thing that touches your lips in the morning is something caffeinated. Although we aren't opposed to having a cup of coffee, we encourage you to start your day with the habit of drinking a glass of water. If you have a glass by your toothbrush it is almost impossible to mess this routine up. Plus, you’ll already be one glass closer to your daily task.
YOUR METABOLISM NEEDS WATER
Drinking water directly impacts your metabolism after drinking it. Without enough water, metabolic functions slow down.
HOW MUCH WATER?
So how much water is "enough"? An adequate intake is 8 cups per day or 64 ounces minimum.
WHAT KIND OF WATER
Plain water is best, or try adding citrus, fruit or things like cucumbers. ginger, basil or mint. Flavored waters are okay but be sure to avoid ones with artificial food colorings and sweeteners as those can cause a number of issues. Teas, like peppermint, chamomile and lavender can count towards your daily goal, however caffeinated drinks like coffee, black or green tea and so on should not count as they have a dehydrating effect on the body.
WHEN YOU’RE HUNGRY, DRINK WATER.
Thirst is often confused with hunger. True hunger will not be satisfied by drinking water. Drinking water will also contribute to your weight management plan as it can help you feel full and avoid grazing and snacking.
A FEW TIPS:
Do not ever go too long without drinking any water. Make sure you have some at a minimum of once an hour.
Keep water at your desk and refill it often
Keep a bottle of water with you during the day and figure out how many of them you need to drink per day to hit your daily goal. We recommend a bottle that is anywhere from 20-40oz.
Drink less water before bedtime so it does not interfere with your sleep.
Drink water before, during and after a workout
Get in the habit of drinking water at a restaurant. It will keep you from drinking worse things, and It’s free!
Make it a habit to drink a glass of water before each meal.
The good news is that increasing your water intake is straightforward and once you incorporate it into your daily routine it’s usually a habit that sticks. So grab a glass of water and stay on top of your hydration.
Cheers!