Today I was reminded of the importance of staying hydrated over winter. There are less reminders to ensure you drink water as you are less likely to feel thirst in the cooler weather than you would during hot summer days. However, it is just as important to drink lots of water during the winter months.
5 reasons why you should up your water intake to stay healthy and hydrated over winter.
1. As the weather cools, we find ourselves wrapping up in more layers and turning on the heating.
This warm, dry air can lead to dehydration which in winter can be harder to notice – particularly if you are not sweating and are feeling the cold.
2. The dry, stale air from central heating and air-conditioning can really take its toll on your skin.
The dry air and contrast between being in a warm room to going outside in the cold can cause your skin to dry and crack. Water is vital in keeping your skin cells full and hydrated, reducing the risk of chapping and peeling. Water also pushes toxins out of your body, which, when not well-hydrated, can come through your pores, causing blemishes or spots. Keep your skin healthy by drinking water at regularly, even though you probably don't feel thirsty.
3. If you are feeling that mid-afternoon slump, looking for a caffeine boost, you're probably suffering from dehydration.
When you are dehydrated your body functions slow down and use up extra energy resources which can leave you feeling tired and sluggish. Keep a glass of water to hand and sip regularly to keep energy levels up.
4. Our brains often mistake thirst for hunger.
It's hard not to reach for another choccy bickie just to cheer ourselves up, especially when the weather is cold and miserable. But after drinking water that hunger trigger can become less.
5. Keeping well hydrated during winter ensures that the barriers our immune systems use to fight off colds and flu are functioning well.
To help you stay fighting fit during the winter, make sure you keep drinking water regularly to help fight back against the viruses. hopefully, these five reasons will be enough to remind you to keep your water intake up during the cooler months and keep you happy and healthy on the inside and outside.