02/28/2024
H2O: Sip, Sip, Hooray!
Feeling dehydrated? Water. Muscles cramping? Water. Thirsty? Yep, that’s right: water. You probably even hear it from your doctor all the time: “you need to drink more water.” And the truth is, you probably should. Many people don’t drink enough water, instead filling up on coffee, tea, or soda. And although caffeine is great, these drinks aren’t great for you. And not many other drinks are going to quench your thirst the same way that water can. Nothing beats feeling thirsty and filling up a 40-ounce tumbler with ice and cold water.
There are so many benefits to drinking more water, but here are just a few:
- You feel more hydrated.
- It helps decrease muscle cramping.
- It helps with digestion.
- It helps regulate body temperature.
Not only that, but water makes a great companion on a hike or a bike ride. Especially on a hot, sunny day. You wouldn’t go on a run with a glass of milk, right?
Now, none of this is to say that you can’t or shouldn’t enjoy a cold glass of sweet tea, a hot cup of coffee, or a nice, cold Dr. Pepper occasionally. But cutting back on those and replacing them with water will make you feel so much better. Many people don’t drink water because they “don’t like” it. And maybe that’s true. But once you get over that “I don’t like it” speed hump, it’s pretty smooth sailing from there. You start to actually crave it. You start to actually want it. You actually choose it over other drink options.
Here’s a tip for those that have difficulty getting over that “I don’t like it” hump: get some water flavor packets. There are many brands, options, and flavors to choose from- including sugar-free options- so you can still drink your water but have some flavor to it. Or just add some lemon for a more subtle flavor.
How nice would it be to go to your next doctor’s appointment and be able to tell your doctor that you’ve been drinking a ton of water? He or she would be so impressed with you for committing to even the smallest change in your healthier lifestyle! On top of that, you’d be able to brag to your friends, family, co-workers, what-have-you, that you’ve developed this new, healthier lifestyle and you can use yourself as a prime example of the benefits of doing so and try to get them on board as well.
So, with the information given- benefits, flavoring options, the potential for a healthier you- here’s the big question: are you ready? Are you ready to cut back on or do away with the sugary, calorie-containing, unhealthy drinks you’re already drinking and replace them with water? Are you ready to feel better? To feel more hydrated and thus more energized? Are you ready to take that plunge and see what this healthy lifestyle change can do for you? Be an example- drink more water… ice cold, delicious water.