You’ve probably heard many times that hydration is the A’s and O’s, especially during the summer months. So what does this mean and why is it so important?
You’ve probably heard many times that hydration is the A’s and O’s, especially during the summer months. So what does this mean and why is it so important?
How hydration benefits your body
Drinking enough fluids helps you:
- Avoid dehydration,
- to boost your immunity,
- in preventing constipation,
- be discreet.
What should you drink?
The short answer is “water”. There really isn’t anything better and your body doesn’t need more. But if you don’t like water or are tired of water, you can try:
Tea without sugar. You can drink unsweetened or flavored tea, as well as regular tea without sugar.
Fragrant water. You can flavor water with almost anything. Take any fruit from your fridge or freezer and soak it in water overnight to flavor it. Try combinations like mango and strawberry, apple and cinnamon, or blueberry and mint. You can also add herbs like mint and rosemary. Another option is to add 100% natural fruit juice to the water. Be creative!
Sparkling waters with a natural taste. Look for those flavored with fruit essences rather than artificial sweeteners. If you’re going to choose one with artificial sweetener, choose one with stevia, advises nutritionist Chelsea LeBlanc.
Low-fat milk or unsweetened plant-based milk. Low-fat milk, as well as unsweetened plant-based milks like oat milk or almond milk, can give you a little more variety in your choices while providing you with extra nutrients.
Is there anything I shouldn’t be drinking?
Avoid any drinks that contain sugar. Soft drinks, energy drinks, sugary tea and sugary lemonade or coffee do not help.
Adults should avoid alcoholic beverages as well as many sugary drinks, as they are actually dehydrating.