Increasing your water intake is one of the most effective ways to improve overall health and we’re so lucky in New Zealand to have some of the best water in the world.
Start your day with a big glass of water and try to drink at least four glasses between meals rather than with your food.
Drinking while you eat can cause bloating, indigestion and can dilute your body’s hydrochloric acid, which is essential to break down food properly. Drinking between meals puts our bodies in an ideal state to absorb the nutrients from our food.
Keep scrolling below to see more tips for increasing your daily consumption of water.
In order to have good digestion and regular bowel movements, your body requires adequate fibre and water. If you’re feeling blocked up, make a conscious effort to up your water intake. Doctors are recommending about two litres a day for women and three litres for men.
Try to cut down on caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee as they have a dehydrating effect on our bodies. Sugary beverages, like juices, fizzy or energy drinks, can rob you of your hydration too as they
interfere with the absorption of water from the intestines.
Water can be gained from food too! Celery, cucumber and watermelon all have significant amounts of water, so eat plenty of these to help with hydration.
It might not be glamorous, but take note of your urine colour when going to the toilet as this is a clear indicator of hydration. Darkness indicates dehydration, so if you see this, pour yourself a big glass of water asap!
Drinking water is important for inside and out. Want glowing skin, healthy hair and strong nails? Drink up! If your skin is dry, try increasing your water and vege intake, and you’ll soon see a difference.
Treat yourself to a good water bottle and take it with you everywhere you go. Carry it with you in the car, to a friend’s place, at work, when you ride your bike and also keep a glass on your side table at night. Get into good habits and this will increase your hydration.
If you get tired of water, make your own kombucha (fermented black or green tea) or sip coconut water. Even adding a squeeze of lime juice or a bunch of mint to your water can make rehydrating less of a chore.
