THE DOWN-LOW ON H2O

Yes, we know, water is good for you. Yet we consistently see people not consuming enough! Well, with summer on its way and the temperatures already climbing, we want to fill you in on our friend, H20.

There’s a reason why we can live days and days on water alone. Water is one of the most essential nutrients for our bodies. Water aids in our bodily processes – including regulating temperature, aiding digestion, and “flushing” out the system of toxins.

Which is why we experience all sorts of symptoms when we are dehydrated: fatigue, loss of coordination, headaches, rapid heart rate, dizziness/lightheadedness, muscle cramps…to name a few. So when you’re in the middle of Boot Camp and you start to feel muscle cramps…there’s a pretty high chance you didn’t drink enough water prior to exercise!

Women generally require about 2-3 L/Day and men require 3-4. However, active adults need even more water. That includes YOU!

How do you know you’re hydrated? If your urine is pale yellow or clear then you’re doing okay. If it’s dark yellow/gold then you’re lacking in the H20 Department. Also, if you’re feeling thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. Stay ahead of your thirst and sip all day!

Having a tough time keeping track of your water intake? Buy a BPA-free water bottle, preferably in a 1-1.5 L size. This way you can keep refilling it with filtered water to the total volume that meets your daily requirements. Tosca Reno of the “Eat Clean Diet” suggests drinking 500ml of water with nearly every meal to get in to the habit of drinking enough water.

And here’s a little bonus…drinking water can help keep our hunger at bay. I find that if I drink lots of water before a meal, I can stick to proper portions more easily!

We hope this gives you a little more insight in to the importance of hydration: no more excuses – drink up! Not only will your workouts feel better, your body will too – inside and out!

To Your Success!

Julia