3 Easy Ways to stay Hydrated

I mentioned in a previous post that hydration is important for energy AND recovery.

But studies have shown that hydration is not just about drinking 8 glasses of water a day, as previously thought–though it is a start.

What actually matters is how much of that water actually reaches our cells, and how are bodies use it.

Why is hydration important?

Our cells use the hydrogen from water to make ATP, which is the unit of energy our cells use for bodily processes.

Water also helps get rid of inflammation by deactivating free radicals and clearing them from our system, along with toxins and by products from bodily processes.

Some side effects of dehydration include headaches, fatigue, brain fog and a weakened immune response.

How to stay hydrated (other than drinking water)

Electrolytes

Many of our cells run on electricity, which allows them to communicate with each other.

Water alone doesn’t actually conduct the electricity our cells need.

That’s where electrolytes come in.

Electrolytes dissolve in water and give it the ability to conduct electricity.

This is why we need electrolytes in order to be properly hydrated.

Some electrolytes include:

• calcium

• magnesium

• chloride

• sodium

• potassium

  As I mentioned in a previous post, energy drinks are not an ideal choice for getting electrolytes because of the amount of high-fructose corn syrup in them. This ingredient causes us to have an energy crash soon after, along with brain fog and cravings.

  Instead, try incorporating some of these foods that are sources of electrolytes:

• seeds and nuts

• dark leafy veggies

• sea salt

• fruit and veg

Eat more fruit and veg

Not only are they rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals, but some studies show that incorporating more fruit and vegetables improves hydration.

Here are some of the most hydrating fruit and vegetables:

• iceberg lettuce

• carrots

• pineapple

• watermelon

• spinach

• broccoli

• berries

• cucumber

• kiwi

• cauliflower

• tomatoes

  Tip: If you aren’t a fan of drinking plain water, try adding some of these fruits to your water for some flavour and electrolytes to stay hydrated.

Sea salt

I already mentioned sea salt in the electrolyte section, but it is worth special mention.

The sodium in sea salt helps balance our water and potassium levels, which enhances hydration.

It also has an alkalising effect on the body, so it’s a double win for us!

You can either sprinkle it on food, or add a teaspoon in your water upon waking, or after a workout.