You probably know that water is the most important drink in your life. But how much do you really need? Read on, to figure this out.
If you have never really paid much attention to your water drinking habits, then it’s time to change this scenario. For, this is the most vital drink in your life. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to function.
In fact, proper hydration improves your skin, kills hunger pangs and aids the conversion of fat into energy. In addition, water boosts your metabolism and digestion, and flushes out toxins and waste from the body.
And guess what else? Unlike almost every other drink on the planet, this is a zero calorie drink. So make sure you have at least 8 glasses a day, to stay healthy.
Drink throughout the day
There’s no absolute rule to when you need to drink water. Ideally, you should have some when you wake up, and then at 2 hour intervals throughout the day.
Go for about 8 to 12 glasses per day. But of course the amount you need depends on specific factors like your diet, level of physical activity, body composition, and climate, too.
Tips on how to keep hydrated
- Don’t wait to feel thirsty. Thirst is the first sign your body sends out when dehydration sets in. So keep sipping water regularly throughout the day, and especially before, during, and after a workout session.
- Consider using a water tracker, a device or app that helps you determine your ideal intake, and how much you drink every day.
- Start and end your day with this drink. Drinking at least 2 to 3 glasses of water first thing in the morning and 1 to 2 glasses before going to bed, helps you to replenish any water lost during the day.
- Eat water-rich foods. Fruits and vegetables such as melons, citrus fruits, and gourds fall in this category, so make sure you eat generous portions of these.
A peek at various kinds of water
#1 Flavoured waters
These are popular in the West, though they aren’t hugely popular in India. These contain fruit flavours, carbon dioxide and other minerals, added as taste enhancers and also impart a feeling of fullness.
Research shows that flavoured waters help those trying to eat less, since this drink fills them up, enabling them to cutback on solid food more easily.
#2 Natural sparkling water
This is water that has been treated with carbon dioxide and other minerals, to a level that matches its source.
#3 Seltzer water, fizzy water, club soda
All these are carbonated water, both sugar and calorie free. No substantial risks are associated with these drinks, which are a healthier option to fizzy and sugary drinks in the market.
Recent studies have not proven any unhealthy effects of these beverages, even though myths of bone and dental damage persist.
#4 Tonic water
This is a bitter tasting carbonated water, that contains a compound called quinine, plus sodium and sugar. Some varieties contain sugar substitutes and other additives, that actually add more calories.