“I know I should be drinking more water.” I bet you have said this statement, and everyone around you probably has too. Drinking water is important, and 8 glasses (64 oz) of water a day is the general recommendation.

Drinking water is not easy for many because some people don’t feel thirsty, others don’t like the taste of water, and some say their belly feels terrible after drinking water, like a sloshing feeling.

Then, sometimes, we are unsure about a seemingly simple task: Should it be a small or tall glass? Is it better to drink water with or without ice? What if I drink coffee? Does that count toward my hydration? How about a soft drink at lunch? Does that count, too? Should I drink more water to lose weight? Will I lose belly fat if I drink water?

How to hydrate when you have trouble drinking water

Why is it important to drink water and hydrate our bodies?

I am sure you know by now that our bodies are made of 60% water. Water has several essential jobs in our bodies:

• Water transports nutrients and oxygen in our body to help grow and repair itself
• Water flushes the kidneys and liver to remove toxins from the body
• Water lubricates your joints and acts as a shock absorber in your joints
• It regulates body temperature, blood pressure, heart rate
• It helps you maintain a healthy metabolism

Hydration Is More Important In Menopause

According to the Mayo Clinic, the average adult loses more than 10 cups of water per day. Women in perimenopause or menopause lose more water due to night sweats than the average adult. It appears that the more we hydrate, the less likely we are to suffer from hot flashes and night sweats. During that time, many women suffer from dizziness that may be caused by hormonal fluctuations and dehydration.

Hydrate Your Skin

Worried about your appearance? Water can help there too. Dehydration can result in dry skin that is saggy and wrinkled; as we age, we are less able to conserve water. According to Selfgrowth.com, “a big percentage of the fluids that we ingest leaves our body through sweat and urine, resulting in the need to drink more water than when we are younger.”

Hydrate By Eating Your Water!

“You don’t have to drink water per se to get water, you can eat watery foods, and that will count,” says Nancy Clark, a registered dietitian and sports nutritionist in Boston. “Soup counts, yogurt, and watermelon count. Orange is 92% water, and salads are full of water; so all in all, people get plenty of water through foods and beverages other than water.”

How about you eat more fruits and vegetables and load up on water that way?

Here are a few suggestions for increasing your water intake and getting vital minerals and nutrients into your daily meals.

As we’ve explored, staying hydrated is about more than just drinking water. It’s a holistic approach that encompasses choosing foods like high-water-content vegetables, understanding the myriad benefits of proper hydration, and integrating these practices into our daily lives. From improved physical performance and enhanced cognitive function to better digestion and glowing skin, the power of hydration is truly multifaceted.

Remember, every sip of water and bite of a water-rich vegetable is a step towards a healthier, more vibrant you. As you continue on your journey towards optimal health and wellness, consider the role of hydration as your ever-present ally. So, the next time you reach for a snack, why not make it hydrating? Your body and mind will thank you.

Stay hydrated, stay healthy, and let the power of water lead you to a life of vitality and vigor. Here’s to your health! For ideas on delicious meals and recipes that help you stay hydrated as well, check out our recipe packs right here.