5 Days Of Health & Fitness Tips: Day THREE – Hydration

Put down the margarita and wine glasses and let’s talk hydration. That means fluid entering your body to help you maintain hydration levels, not dehydrate them. That’s right, we’re talking water, not wine. Sorry, my friends.

Did you know:

Often times when you’re feeling hungry, you’re actually dehydrated? Yup, signals can get a little crossed, so if you’re ravenous but it’s not meal or snack time, have yourself a glass of water and see how you feel in a few minutes.

Did you know:

75% of Americans (I know I’m Canadian, but apparently we don’t do hydration stats up here in Canada) are chronically dehydrated. Although most people are taking in the required amount of water to maintain hydration, caffeine, alcohol and sodium intake offset hydration leaving you parched, thirsty and dehydrated. Bummer.

Did you know:

There’s a simple way to see if you’re dehydrated? It’s called the pinch test. Simply use your pointer finger and thumb and pinch the back of your opposite hand. If the skin bounces back quickly, you’re a-ok! If it takes a while to settle back into place…GO DRINK YOUR WATER, YO.

Do it. Right now. You’re doing it, right? So…how’d you do. Want some water?

*Not a medical test, obviously, but it’s a quick way for you test assess how you’re doing, hydration-wise”.

Hydration is so important and I don’t think a lot of people understand just how important it is. Dehydration causes fatigue, foggy memory, irritability, increased feelings of anxiety and is one of the most common risks for kidney stones.

Being hydrated, on the other hand, clears your mind, may help boost your metabolism and helps with focus, energy and overall physical performance. Yay water!

With all that being said:

Lindsay’s TOP TIP for hydration:

Get a jug that measures 3L. Fill it each morning and ensure it’s empty by the end of your beautiful day. You don’t need to carry 3L of water around (though some do), it’s a little heavy. I keep mine in the fridge and pour it into a smaller water bottle throughout the day.

Add frozen fruit for natural flavor if you find water to be boring. Or add lemon and mint and let it sit overnight. Seriously yummy.

Having a physical reminder of how much water you need to drink it great. It will help keep you on track and if you get a bottle like I have, there are friendly little reminders about how awesome you are for being a hydrating superstar!

THIS is the bottle I like to use:

There ya go! I mean, I can’t make hydration super sexy, but I can reiterate how incredibly important it is and provide you with an idea to help ensure you’re hydrated.

Get yourself a fancy water botter and get drinkin’! Water. Drink water. Not wine. No…not wine. NOT. WINE.

You’re welcome. xo