We all know we need to drink lots of water, especially during the Summer months when temperatures are high and we tend to do more physical activity. But did you know that it's probably more important to stay hydrated during Winter?
Water makes up over two-thirds of the body, lubricating your joints and eyes, flushing out toxins and helping to keep your skin plump and healthy. However, the body loses water through day to day activities, sweating & urination, and even more so in Winter as the cold, dry air pulls moisture and water out of you skin (especially when you sleep at night) - 'Say Hello chapped lips and flaky face!'.
Not getting enough fluids into our bodies can cause muscle cramps, headaches and dizzy spells, tiredness and dry mouth and eyes.
My Big Fit Tips for staying hydrated in winter
In the Summer months many of us become attached to our water bottles but in the Winter a cold glass of iced water isn't generally seen as the drink of choice (especially when Mulled wine is on offer!). So what can we do?
Eat high water containing foods. Drinking water isn't our only source of water. Many foods also have a naturally high water content and are often full of added vitamins that water doesn't have. For high water containing foods look towards fruit and vegetables such as cucumber, broccoli, celery & aubergine (eggplant).
Avoid diuretics such as caffeine and alcohol. So when you're hitting the free drinks bar at your works Christmas do, make sure you drink extra water to compensate (your skin and your head will thank you for it in the morning.)
Drink Herbal Teas as they are naturally caffeine free AND will help to keep you warm on those extra cold days. There are so many flavours to choose from too so you will never get bored. Check out my interview here with the lovely Parched Tea. And If you do need your daily dose of caffeine try and limit this to one cup preferably before noon.
Drink a glass of water before each meal. This will not only get you on your way to your daily quota of water, but drinking a glass of water 30mins before you eat is known to curb your appetite helping you to consume less calories. Added Bonus!!
Drink at least one glass of water upon waking. Keep a glass or a bottle of water at the side of your bed to drink through the night if needed. Then when you get up try and drink as much as you can to help replace the water your body has lost in the night. It will also give you a much needed energy boost, getting you ready to tackle the day ahead!