Do you drink enough water? Some people forget to drink it, are too busy, or just don’t like the taste. You might want to rethink this if you feel tired, lightheaded and experience headaches throughout the day. You might be dehydrated.
Why is dehydration something to avoid? Our body is composed of nearly seventy percent water and it is found in every one of our 100 trillion cells. Water regulates body temperature, lubricates your joints and aids in the digestion process. So, without the essential fluids needed for our body to run smoothly, organs can become damaged and systems don't function properly.
If you have a hard time drinking water and would prefer some healthy alternative ways to hydrate your body, here are some options. There is no true substitute for water, but these are a good way to supplement your fluid intake.
1. Fresh squeezed juice
Have you ever tried a glass of fresh squeezed carrot juice with ginger? Or if that’s not quite your style, try a fresh orange juice. You can get an inexpensive device to squeeze oranges (or lemons and limes) into a juice and then add it to water. Or, mix it with your other favorite juices like pineapple or cranberry. There is no end to the combinations you can make and add to your water bottle. Always watch the labels if you’re purchasing bottled juice, and choose the ones ‘not from concentrate’ and without high-fructose corn syrup or artificial colors. Mixing juice with water tones down the sugar content, which is healthier for your blood sugar levels, and will make your juice last longer.
2. Soups
Slurp a light vegetable soup as a snack in the mid-morning or afternoon to boost your water intake and energy levels. Use high water content vegetables such as celery, cucumber, iceberg lettuce, tomato and zucchini. Or, blend everything up and take it in a thermos as something tasty and hydrating to sip on all day.
3. Smoothies
Make a smoothie with high water content fruits, including blueberries, oranges, peaches, pineapples, plums, raspberries, cantaloupes and watermelon. Add water instead of the usual thickeners like dairy, soy, rice or almond milk. Remember, you want this to be like a fruity jazzed-up glass of water! Make a big batch and let it last for several hours.
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4. Coconut water
Coconut water is an excellent way to rehydrate the body, especially after exercise. The coconut contains minerals and vitamins to restore fluid balance, namely electrolytes. You can find coconut water in most grocery stores. Look for the brands that don’t add sugar.
5. Herbal teas
If you want a break from juicing (and chopping and mixing) then simply brew yourself a cup of tea. Good options include chamomile, peppermint or nettle tea, and for hot summer days, cool them in the fridge for a homemade iced tea. Again, there is no limit to the choices and varieties of teas you can drink. Mix them up so that you’re never bored with the taste. More importantly, you will provide the body with the fluids and hydration it needs even if you’re not a “water drinker”.
