Getting enough water (being hydrated) is important in hot and cold weather. Water is essential for bodily functions like maintaining blood pressure, digesting food and regulating body temperature — something needed to keep us warm in this cold weather. At the same time, we may not realize we do still sweat. Our lungs are also working to humidify the drier winter air. When we exhale and can see our breath, that’s due to water.
At this time of year, it may be more difficult to remember to drink water, since cold weather can lessen our ability to feel thirst.
Take care when choosing beverages because not all beverages are created equal. Drinking beverages high in added sugars can lead to weight gain and chronic disease, and also crowd out more nutritious foods and drinks. In fact, the number one source of added sugars in the American diet is sugar-sweetened beverages such as soda, energy drinks, sweetened teas and coffee drinks.
Here are some tips to stay hydrated and also keep yourself healthy.
- Adapt your beverages for the season: in cool weather, you may enjoy hot tea or hot cocoa made with skim milk.
- Try flavored water: add berries, cucumber, fresh herbs or lemon to your water. If you like carbonation, try it with sparkling water.
- Carry a water bottle: this may help remind you to drink throughout the day rather than only at mealtimes.
- Eat hydrating foods: drinking isn’t the only way to hydrate. Fresh fruits and vegetables like melons, cucumber, grapes and oranges contain over 90% water. Soups and smoothies are high in water and are perfect for busy winter days.
Stay warm, stay healthy, stay hydrated.
