Eat Your Water, Too!

Although summer may be winding down, and the hottest days of the year could be behind us, it is vital to stay hydrated year-round. It's easy to remember to drink water while you're exercising, and on hot days, but on a cool day you might forget.

Allowing your body to become even mildly dehydrated can cause all kinds of problems. Every single cell in your body (and brain!) needs and thrives on water. Without adequate hydration, your blood becomes thicker, making more work and strain for your heart, not to mention the rest of your organs, especially the kidneys. Your muscles cannot function properly. Your joints will begin to ache. Your thinking may become cloudy and headaches, even migraines, can ensue. You will probably feel excessively tired and have zero energy. If you want to be at your best, staying well hydrated is crucial!

Last summer, I spent ten days in the desert. The temperatures were in the high 90s most days, and up to 113 some of the time. We walked around outdoors every day; some days we hiked for hours in the relentless sunshine. We carried water, and I tried to drink enough, but it seemed impossible to keep up with the loss of moisture from my body. The last four days of my vacation were spent with a migraine headache that would not quit. I'm sure the constant dehydration brought this on. Not fun at all!

There are a number of factors, besides the weather, that can increase dehydration. Exercise, especially on a hot day, can cause major dehydration. Coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages all cause the body to excrete more urine and thus can increase dehydration. Certain medications also dehydrate the body. If your mouth is dry, you can be sure the rest of your body is also lacking moisture. Try to compensate for any of these factors when you decide how much water you should be drinking.

In addition to plain water, you might also need to increase your electrolytes if you are exercising for over an hour or in excessive heat. There are loads of sports drink options available these days, with and without sugar. You can also purchase Saltsticks--an electrolyte supplement in capsule form.

Please remember: drinking water is important. Don't stop drinking! But in addition to drinking, you can also make sure your body stays hydrated by EATING your water. Here are a few foods that contain a good amount of water and will help you maintain a healthy level of hydration:

1) Watermelon. (DUH!) This food even has water in its name! Watermelon is a great choice in the summer. Also cantaloupe, honeydew, and other types of melon.

2) Cucumbers. A very watery veggie. Great in salads, gazpacho, sandwiches, and sliced into drinks.

3) Tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes are fantastic at this time of year, and contain a good amount of water. Add them to salads, sandwiches, and blend them into cold, refreshing soups.

4) Peaches. Another fresh summer favorite. Slice them into salads, blend them into smoothies, or just eat them whole.

5) Chia seeds! Chia seeds are a great addition to smoothies, salads, baked goods, and puddings. They don't contain water, but they absorb water and hold onto it. They add fiber and protein to your diet, while providing moisture as they travel through the digestive tract.

Keep on drinking your water, but while you're at it, try eating more water, too!