Hydrate to Stay Healthy

Staying hydrated is crucial for your health and your heart—especially if you have a physically demanding job. Water makes up about 60% of your body and helps with many vital functions. Keeping hydrated helps your heart pump blood more easily to your muscles, reducing its workload. Drinking enough water helps you feel better and perform better throughout your workday. 


Here are some of the benefits of staying well hydrated:

• Keeps your body cool: Water helps keep your body temperature steady, especially in hot weather or when you exercise.

• Helps you stay active: Dehydration can make you tired and hurt your physical performance. Drinking water keeps your energy up.

• Supports your brain: Water is essential for your brain. Even mild dehydration can make it hard to concentrate and can negatively affect your memory.

• Helps digestion: Water helps your digestive system work well and prevents constipation.

• Supports your kidneys: Drinking enough water helps your kidneys remove waste from your blood and prevents kidney stones.

• Prevents headaches: Dehydration can cause headaches. Drinking water can help prevent them.

 

The amount of water you need depends on the climate, your clothing and your activity level. To help you stay hydrated, here are some tips:

• Drink lots of water: Try to drink at least 8 cups of water a day.

• Eat hydrating foods: Foods like cucumbers, oranges and watermelon have a lot of water and can help keep you hydrated.

• Set reminders: Carry a water bottle with time markers or set reminders on your phone to drink water throughout the day.

• Check your hydration: Look at the color of your urine. Light yellow means you are well hydrated. Dark yellow or amber means you need more fluids.

• Drink regularly: Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Try to drink water regularly.

• Choose water over sugary drinks: Water is the best choice for staying hydrated. Sugary drinks and caffeine can make you more dehydrated.

 

If you’re feeling dehydrated or have questions about your hydration needs, use our 24/7 telehealth services to consult with a healthcare professional from home, or explore our ways to get care to find the best options for you.

In an emergency, always call 911 or go to your local emergency services immediately.

Sources:

• www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/water/art-20044256
• www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-health-benefits-of-water