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Fall & Winter Tips for Staying Hydrated

It's really easy to remember to drink water during the warm summer months, when a glass of ice-cold water feels like the most refreshing thing in the world. I always recommend drinking a gallon of water every day, regardless of the season. However, water intake usually declines over autumn and winter, since the weather cools down and you probably feel like you need to drink a lot less. But dehydration can sneak up on you! Perspiration tends to turn to water vapor very quickly and extra layers of clothing–combined with the drier air–can cause our bodies to dehydrate without us even realizing that it’s happening. Failing to stay hydrated can actually be hazardous to your health, potentially leading to much more serious consequences. Here are four reasons why staying hydrated is just as important in the colder months:

  • It Boosts Your Immunity. Water helps to carry oxygen to your body cells, which results in properly functioning systems. It also works in removing toxins from the body, so drinking more of it could help prevent toxins from building up and having a negative impact on your immune system.
  • It Improves Your Skin. Dry skin is especially common in the colder months when the humidity level outside drops. When the air outside is cold and dry, the water in your skin evaporates more quickly; this makes your skin feel dry and tight, and it makes it look flaky. Drinking the recommended gallon of water every day will help rid the body and skin of toxins. Also, water helps your skin maintain moisture and hydrates it from the inside out, which increases its elasticity. The more elastic your skin, the fewer wrinkles you'll see.
  • It Keeps You Energetic. When the cold weather sets in, it is usually accompanied by fewer hours of sunlight, and that change can actually affect your sleep cycle and create what some people call "winter tiredness". Dehydration can also cause fatigue because it impacts the flow of oxygen to the brain and causes your heart to work harder to pump oxygen to all your bodily organs, making you more tired and less alert. Keeping well hydrated will ensure your bodily functions are supported and running efficiently, and this will make you feel more energetic.
  • It Helps You Fight Weight Gain. Gaining weight during the fall and winter is a common problem for most people, due to the holidays, the shorter days, and the richer, calorie-dense food that is typical during this season. The human brain often mistakes thirst for hunger, so it's important to stay hydrated so you don't have the urge to overeat. Being well hydrated also helps the digestive system function and process food better, which is vital during the months when people tend to over-consume. Don't forget to also stick to Mind Body Soul Meal Plan

Hydrating Even When It's Cold

When you don't feel like guzzling glass after glass of cold water, but you still want to stay properly hydrated, you can follow these 3 easy tips:

  • Drink Hot Beverages. Try warming up with a nice cup of herbal tea, or even just a simple cup of hot water with key lime juice. These hot beverages will keep you cozy on a chilly Autumn's day, but also help you reach your water-intake goals and provide you with a ton of health benefits in the process.
  • Keep Eating Fruits and Vegetables. Several fruits and vegetables have a high water content that can help you stay hydrated even if you forget to drink the whole gallon of water. Apples, seeded cucumbers, seeded grapes, mushrooms, pears, and bell peppers are all in season during this month, and they all have a high water content, so stock up!
  • Eat Hot Soup. Even if you are not sick, nothing is more comforting than a hot bowl of soup. Soup is an excellent meal during the cold months when your body needs more warming food. It’s also hydrating and gives your body much-needed liquid. On top of all that, soup is easy to digest, making it a great way to get valuable nutrients into your diet.
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