It’s winter again and while you’re craving some hot chocolate and marshmallows, don’t forget to stay hydrated. As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, the air is less humid which causes loss of moisture from our body thus leaving us dehydrated.
Other factors that cause dehydration in winter are the consumption of less water due to lack of thirst, sweating due to exercise or heavy winter wear and frequent urination, says Avni Kaul.
The body’s core temperature can drop to a dangerous level when there isn’t enough fluid in the body causing hypothermia which can be fatal. Thus hydration is crucial for good health.
Water is the elixir of life. Besides regulating body temperature, and taking care of your immune system, it also increases your metabolism and keeps your hunger pangs under control to help you stay healthy. It has several other health benefits to offer too.
So, what are the benefits of staying hydrated and how do you stay hydrated in winter? India’s top dietician and nutritionist, Avni Kaul shares a few benefits, tips and tricks for staying hydrated in winter.
First, let us take a look at some of the benefits.
Temperature regulation: Water helps regulate the body temperature, during both summers and winters. Staying hydrated is a sure shot method to stay warm internally and prevent conditions like hypothermia.
Boosting immunity: The cold and dry air might sap your body of energy, making you feel sluggish and more prone to cold and flu. Stay hydrated to enhance immunity and protect your body from illnesses.
Regulating weight: When you are hydrated, your body breaks down fats more easily effectively regulating body weight.
Boosting skin health: Drinking sufficient water is important for skin health. During winters, staying hydrated prevents dry and dull skin.
Here are some simple ways to stay hydrated during the winter.
Quench your thirst: Drink before you feel thirsty because when you are feeling thirsty, you are already dehydrated. So, prevention is better than cure.
Something hot to drink: Consider drinking warm water using lemon and honey, herbal teas, hot milk, etc to stay hydrated. Adding soups and broths to your daily diet will boost your nutrient intake.
Eat hydrating foods: Fruits such as strawberries, oranges, peaches, pineapple, plums, apricots, blueberries, watermelon, etc and vegetables such as broccoli, celery, tomato, cucumber, lettuce, etc have a high water content that keeps you hydrated.
Say NO to caffeine and alcohol: Restrict your consumption of coffee and alcohol, no matter how tempting they may be on a freezing winter night as they cause dehydration.
Don’t binge on salty food: Cut back on sodium as it helps you stay hydrated in winter. Fried and processed foods like potato chips, frozen pizza, white bread, etc can siphon out moisture from your body and leave you dehydrated.
Don’t forget to drink water: Perhaps the best way to stay hydrated in winter is to keep sipping water throughout the day. With various mobile apps, tracking your daily water intake nowadays is a piece of cake. Make it a habit to carry water with you always.
Layer-up: Wearing heavy woollens increases sweating thus leading to a loss of fluids. Instead, layers of light, breathable fabric will keep you warm and reduce perspiration thereby keeping you hydrated.
No matter where you are this winter, it is important to stay hydrated for a happier and healthier tomorrow. Hydration is as important as crisp apple strudels and warm woollen mittens.
