Staying Hydrated During the Winter

During the summer, it’s easy to remember to grab a bottle of water and gulp it down when you’re hot and sweating. But what about winter? Do you drink less water when the weather isn't as warm? Most people do.

Mild dehydration can still happen during winter time. Not only that but chapped lips, dry skin, coughing, nosebleeds, mild headaches and acne are all signs that your body needs more fluid.

Just because it’s cool outside doesn't mean that it’s okay to cut down on your water intake. Health experts says that staying hydrated is essential because the body is mostly water and it needs to constantly be replenished. Our bodies use water for many functions such as breathing, sweating and urination. We need water to regulate our body temperatures. It also alleviates every day discomforts, so if you’re feeling yucky in the afternoon, it may mean you need to drink more water.

A mere two percent drop in the body’s water volume can set off dizziness, muscle cramps, fatigue, and make you lose focus.

Here are some tips on how to increase water consumption during the winter:

• Have a bowl of clear soup before each meal. It will not only warm and fill you up but it will also provide nutrition and increase your water content.
• Use water humidifiers during the winter.
• Drink herbal tea.
• Add a sprig of mint or some lemon to your water for a refreshing twist.