Stay Hydrated!

As you know, drinking water is essential for health!  It's particularly important when engaging in physical activity.  The general recommendation is to consume at least 64 ounces of water each day PLUS 8 ounces of water for every 20 minutes of physical activity.  Sipping water throughout the day is the best way to keep hydration at the optimal level.  When working with wellness coaching clients, I encourage them to have water available everywhere - on the bedside table, on the coffee table, in the car, in your gym bag, on your desk - when it's convenient, you're more likely to take a sip. 

Don't like the taste of water?  Try some of these tips:
1.  Add fresh fruit such as lemon, orange, and lime slices.  Or for a tropical flavor - freeze pineapple chunks and add them to water.  For a boost of antioxidants, freeze berries such as blueberries and raspberries and use them as "ice" for your water.
2.  Want to freshen up the flavor - add cucumber slices and mint leaves.
3.  Add a couple drops of 100% fruit juice or make ice cubes out of fruit juice and add to water.
4.  Really cold water will quench your thirst while warmer water will make you fuller. 
5.  Often thirst masks itself as hunger.  We think we're hungry when really we are thirsty - start with a cup of water before snacking or meals. 

Carrying water with you during your walk/run - check out the "Gadgets & Stuff" tab at the top of the blog for information about devices that can make it easier to take water with you.