Most people are chronically dehydrated and don't even realize it. Coffee, alcohol, caffeinated carbonated beverages and simply forgetting to drink enough during the day are major contributors to dehydration. Subtle and not so subtle signs include fatigue, weakness, a "spacey" feeling, dry skin, nails and hair, constipation, poor digestion and absorption of foods. Children can also get dehydrated easily, especially if they are sick, so it's important to make sure that they are drinking enough fluids throughout the day as well.
One way to figure out how many cups of water you need to drink for your particular body is by multiplying your weight by .5- this will give you the number of fluid ounces your body needs- then take that number and divide by eight. This last number will give you a good estimate of how many cups of fluid you need a day. If you are pregnant, nursing, exercising vigorously or live in a warmer climate, it is always a good idea to drink a little more throughout the day.
If you have trouble drinking water-I know a lot of people don't like
the "plain" taste, try adding a squeeze of lemon or a splash of
natural fruit juice (with no added sugars) to your water bottle.
Non-caffeinated herbal teas are also a great option, hot or cold.
Pureed vegetable soups such as butternut squash, carrot, or broccoli
are also terrific way to add more fluid (and veggies) into your diet.
Most fruits and vegetables also contain a good amount of water as
well-all melons, bok choy, apples, oranges are some good examples.
Some people also complain that when they drink a lot of water it makes
them feel bloated or nauseas. In this case, try not to down a glass of
water all at once-take small sips throughout the day. Also, don't
drink too much water on an empty stomach, which can lead to the
bloating and nauseated feeling some people get.
Most of all, pay attention to your body's signs for water and thirst. A
lot of us get thirsty, then get so busy we ignore the sensation and
simply forget to drink. Keeping a water bottle on hand throughout the
day will encourage you to drink more.
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