Drinking enough water every day is essential for your health.
By drinking water, you can help prevent dehydration, which can lead to unclear thinking, mood changes, lower energy, headaches and constipation.
During the summer, bodies cool down through sweating, which in turn can lead to dehydration and other ailments.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, water helps your body prevent infection, lubricate and cushion joints, regulate normal body temperature, deliver nutrients to cells and organs, and get rid of waste through urination and perspiration.
Your body needs more water when you are in hot climates, exercising (before, during and after), running a fever, having diarrhea or vomiting.
The body meets its daily fluid needs through water and beverages. However, you can get some fluids through food with high water content, such as fruits and vegetables.
Try these tips to help you drink more water:
• Keep a reusable water bottle with you, and refill it throughout the day.
• Drink water before, during and after exercise.
• If you’re feeling hungry, try drinking water first.
• Add fruit to your water for flavoring.
• Choose water when eating out to save money and calories.
An easy way to know if you are drinking enough water is to pay attention to the color of your urine. If it’s pale and clear, you’re well hydrated. If it’s dark yellow, you may be dehydrated, so drink more water.
This information does not constitute medical advice, and individuals should seek consultation with their own health care professionals.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and U.S. Department of Agriculture websites have additional details, while the Wellness LiteBlue page has more information to help employees maintain their physical, emotional and financial health.
