Spring is fast approaching, and with it, the promise of longer days and the shedding of those winter layers.
Whether you’re hoping to resume some of your forgotten new year’s resolutions, or you’re simply looking for a fresh start, spring is a great time to consider some new healthy habits.
Keep reading for the top 7 habits to try for health and hydration this spring.
1. Drink water instead of coffee first thing in the morning
When the alarm goes off it can be tempting to reach for a large cup of coffee. However, reports suggest that coffee first thing in the morning can wreak havoc on your gut health and make you dehydrated. This is because your body uses almost a litre of water whilst you sleep – therefore you wake up dehydrated.
Instead, opt for a glass of water as soon as you wake for some amazing benefits.
The first is that drinking water before consuming anything else fires up the metabolism to help you burn fat better throughout the day.
The second is that water on an empty stomach helps to regulate the lymphatic system and flush out any toxins which can support a strong immune system.
And finally, a glass of water is a great way to wake up the body naturally - unlike coffee which can have a negative impact on the ‘awake’ hormone cortisol.
2. Replace electrolytes after exercise
When you sweat, your body loses important electrolytes like potassium and sodium which can have a negative impact on your energy and muscles. If you’re planning on resuming your new years resolution to exercise more, then make sure to replenish your electrolytes with fresh fruit juice, coconut water or sports drinks after exercising.
3. Carry a reusable water bottle everywhere
This is a simple but easy way to ensure you are keeping hydrated throughout the day. The best way to form a habit is to make it easy and convenient, and so having a water bottle to hand will encourage you to drink water throughout the day and stay hydrated. It will also stop you buying unhealthy drinks whilst out and stop you from buying unnecessary plastic.
4. Swap sugary drinks for fruit-infused water
Although fizzy drinks can occasionally be a refreshing pick-me-up, many are full of sugar and can cause health problems such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions and weight gain if consumed too much.
Try swapping fizzy drinks for water infused with fruit if you need something sweet. There are diffuser water bottles you can buy which feature containers where you can place chopped fruit which will diffuse into the water without getting in the way when you drink.
5. Set reminders on your phone
When you’re on the go or busy at work it can be easy to forget to stay hydrated. If you often find yourself reaching the end of the day unable to remember the last time you sipped some water, we recommend setting a remind on your phone to drink water every hour.
Making sure to take some time to rehydrate is an important habit to learn and you will thank yourself for it.
There are even apps you can download which send you reminders to drink water.
6. Drink a glass of water before snacking
We’ve all been there – it’s 3pm and the biscuit tin is calling you. Before you know it, you’re 4 hobnobs down and there’s no sign of stopping.
To avoid over-snacking, try drinking a glass of water before you reach for the biscuits. Wait 15 minutes, then, if you’re still hungry – go for the snack.
This is a great way to distinguish between hunger and dehydration, as dehydration often presents itself as feelings of hunger.
7. Get a good sleep routine
Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day - yes even on weekends! A lack of sleep can often lead to overeating in the day to keep your energy up and studies have shown that poor sleep can lead to dehydration.
This is because a hormone called Vasopressin is released whilst you’re in deep sleep which controls the body’s water balance during the day. If your sleep is disturbed or you’re not getting enough – you’re less likely to be able to regulate your hydration levels. So get that rest!
Final word
Hydration is vital to your health and wellbeing, but it can be a challenge to maintain when on the go. Try these healthy habits to stay hydrated throughout the spring months.
At Cactus Water Systems, we are passionate about hydration and keeping businesses refreshed with an array of high-quality water solutions.
For more information or guidance on which solution is right for you, get in touch with us.
