In light of First Lady Obama's "Drink Up" campaign, which encourages people to drink more water, I thought I'd roll out this post suggesting ways to do just that. Our bodies are made of around 60% water. We lose water each day through breathing, sweating, excreting, and even through routes we are unable to sense (insensible losses!). Therefore, we need to replenish these fluid losses by staying hydrated. The best way to do this is by drinking water. While it's true that milk, coffee, tea, and any other liquid contribute to fluid intake, none of these will truly quench your thirst the way that water does. Moreover, unless you are drinking unsweetened tea or coffee, these options will also add calories. Liquid calories can be more difficult to monitor since you don't feel full, as you typically would with a meal. On to the tips: 1. Dress it up. People like things that are aesthetically pleasing. If something looks good, we are more likely to seek it out. This holds true for what we eat and drink. Make your water pretty: decorate it with mint leaves, cucumber slices, watermelon, lemon or lime wedges (don't forget to squeeze a bit of the juice into the water). Not only will these additions make the water look good, they will impart flavor to the water without adding many calories. 2. Purchase a reusable water bottle. Since it's reusable, you'll save money and you won't have the guilt you feel when you toss a plastic bottle into the waste bin instead of recycling it (c'mon, we've all done it...or maybe you don't feel guilty about it!). In any case, having an easily accessible, attractive (this is KEY) water bottle increases the likelihood of you drinking water. Smaller bottle = fill up more often = unintentional physical activity. Yes, walking to the water fountain counts!
3. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables have a high water content. In addition to water, fruits and veggies are full of fiber. Double win. This combination of water and fiber will give you a feeling of fullness, which may curb your appetite. Some of my favorites include melon, berries, tomatoes, and peppers. While there is not scientific evidence to support the 8 glasses a day rule, it's a good goal to aim for. You may need more or less, depending on your weight and activity level.
2 Comments
Nanette
9/20/2013 01:12:53 am
Wow! I was just talking to one of my students about increasing her water intake. When she left my office, I went to the blog, and here is my support and reinforcement! Thanks! Always on time...
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Alena
9/20/2013 09:08:33 am
That's amazing! Thanks for commenting, Nanette!
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AuthorHello there, my name is Alena and I am a Registered Dietitian! This blog is a platform through which I can share my knowledge and perspectives on a variety of nutrition-related topics. Feel free to contribute by commenting. Archives
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