Why Drinking Water Is a Key Health Tip in Winter
By Genevieve Cunningham
In the heat of summer, most of us remember to drink plenty of water. It's hot, we're sweaty. Reaching for the water bottle is something we do without even thinking about it. But in the winter, we often have more of a struggle. Drinking water tends to fall by the wayside a bit, and instead, we drink coffee and hot tea and cocoa. But here's the thing: Drinking water in the winter is extremely important! If you're guilty of stepping back from the water bottle during cooler months, take a look at why drinking water is one of the most important winter health tips.
Because It's Dry
The winter months tend to be really dry. We might feel it in our skin as it gets dry and ashy and requires more lotion. And we may also feel it on our lips as they crack and become chapped. Often, we attribute this to the frigid temperatures and cold air -- and these things certainly contribute. But a huge part of the dryness we feel is actually dehydration. To avoid this, it's imperative that we continue to drink plenty of water to hydrate our bodies from the inside out.
Because It's Easy to Forget
Because it's not hot and we're not sweating in the winter, it's easy to forget about water consumption. It just doesn't cross our minds because we don't really feel thirsty. But we can get dehydrated in winter just as we can in the summer. We just don't notice it as quickly. In order to avoid dehydration and keep your body well, make sure water consumption is a top priority.
Because of Sickness
The winter tends to bring more illnesses into our lives. The flu, colds, random viruses -- 'tis the season. And if we're going to have the strength to fight off illness, we have to keep our bodies well hydrated. Fluid intake is an essential part of our body's healing capabilities. Your doctor has probably told you to drink fluids through illness before. Stay on top of hydration so that fighting off these seasonal illnesses will be easier in the long run.
Winter is a time for warm food, comforting drinks, and holiday fun. But it's also a time to watch out for our own well-being -- and drinking water is a great way to do just that! Make sure you're getting the water your body needs, and you'll be better able to enjoy your health through the winter and into the warm months ahead.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Nashua, N.H.