When you think that you are hungry
You may be really thirsty. Many people are unaware that they are actually thirsty, even when hunger strikes. The brain recognizes both triggers as being similar. Drink some water before hitting the pantry. Give it a couple of minutes and see if you still feel the need to eat.
When You Wake up
Hydrating first thing in the morning can be very beneficial. You have just finished a long fast. Pour a quick boost and squeeze half a lime in your morning water to get a dose of vitamin C and potassium, as well as antioxidant phytonutrients.
Sweat
Any activity that causes you to sweat, such as a sauna, a hot tub, or time spent outside on a humid, hot day, will cause your body fluid loss. Exercise is also a good idea. Your body will sweat to remove heat as your muscles warm. Cool down by drinking lots of water.
Before and after Exercise
It is important to drink plenty of water to replenish the sweat you lose. How much water? Fill your bottle with 16-20 ounces before you go outside or work out. While you are active, drink 6 to 12 ounces every 10-15 minutes. Drink another 16 to 24 ounces afterwards.
When you’re sick
When you are sick, hydration is essential to your recovery. Water loss can be caused by symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea and fever. Drink lots of water at the first sign that you are sick, even if you don’t feel hungry. Avoid alcohol and caffeine-containing drinks. You’ll be even more dehydrated.
On a Plane
Have you ever wondered why you feel so thirsty and parched when you fly? All about the altitude. As you climb higher, cabin air gets drier. Around half of the air that enters your cabin comes from the outside. Carry an empty water bottle that you can fill as necessary during the flight to combat the low humidity.
When you get a massage
You will be able to thank your massage therapist if you have a glass of water before hitting the table. You will have softer muscles and more flexibility, making it easier to manipulate tender tissue. After this bodywork, you should also drink plenty of water to flush out the substances released. It is especially important to do this if you are getting a deep-tissue massage or another heavy-duty treatment.
Before Your Period
Drinking lots of water can help ease premenstrual pain and reduce bloating. Dehydration is a major cause of headaches and cramps. In a recent study, young women suffering from dysmenorrhea, or painful menstruation, found that drinking water reduced their cycle length, relieved pelvic discomfort, and decreased their need for pain medication.
If You’re in Midday Slump
Midafternoon has arrived, and you’re feeling drained. But don’t make a fresh pot of coffee. Have a tall glass with lemon or any other flavouring you like to boost your mood. The British Journal of Nutrition states that your hydration level directly impacts your mood, memory and visual perception.
When you have a headache
Dehydration is one of the most common migraine triggers. Even a small drop in fluid intake has been reported to cause a severe headache. You may also feel drowsy and need medical attention in some cases. Keep a water bottle with you at all times, especially if migraines are prone to occur. Also, keep track of your intake. A glass of water can help you if you start to feel the twinge.
Before eating a meal
Preloading or drinking water before eating could help you lose weight. In a small study, people were asked to drink 500 millilitres (about 16 ounces) of water – either tap or bottled – 30 minutes before meals and as much throughout the day. Preloaders lost nearly 3 pounds more over 12 weeks than those who did not follow the protocol.
When you want to lose weight
It’s not just a way to feel full without consuming calories. Water can also boost your metabolism. In a study, fifty girls who were overweight drank 2 cups of water 30 minutes before eating breakfast, lunch and dinner without changing their diet. They lost weight, and their body composition and body mass index scores decreased after 8 weeks. The water also accelerates lipolysis, the body’s process of burning fat as energy.
You need to be on your game.
Did you know that almost three-fourths (or a quarter) of your brain is fluid? The blood vessels of this organ will shrink if your levels drop too low. A Chinese study revealed that this can negatively affect coordination, short-term memory, attention span and stamina. If you are feeling tired and confused, avoid energy drinks that contain caffeine. Drinking water will help you recover.
How much water is best?
According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, more fluids are better for healthy adults. For men, 15.5 cups of liquids per day is optimal, and for women, 11.5 cups of fluids per day, including all food and beverages, is sufficient. This includes all food and drink. You need to consider your health, level of activity, and climate. Consult your doctor to determine how much you require.
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