HYDRATION
Everyone knows that staying hydrated is important. That’s not a secret at all. However, the importance cannot be stressed enough as most adults are consistently under-hydrated. The body cannot adapt to hydration, which impairs every physiological function. Studies show that fluid loss of even 2% of your bodyweight will adversely affect circulatory functions and decrease performance levels. If you wait until you are thirsty to drink water then it is already too late, you are dehydrated. Outside of physical performance we know that proper hydration is important to the health of hair, skin, nails, major organ function, etc.
Those who know me or have had me write a nutrition plan or challenge for them know that I always stress the “100 a day” goal. Challenging you to drink 100oz of water per day, every day! Those who consistently exercise, that amount should be a minimum……especially, if you are participating in a fat loss program!!
As a side note, did you know your body burns calories just by drinking water!? Yep, that’s right! On average, an adult burns 12 calories every 8oz of water they drink!! That’s 150 extra calories burning daily just by drinking your 100oz!
Effects of Dehydration:
- Decreased Performance
- Decreased blood volume
- Decreased sweat rate
- Increased core temperature
- Water retention
- Increased heart rate
- Sodium retention
- Decreased cardio output
- Decreased circulation
Proper hydration plays such a major role in our day to day lives. Up your intake and you will look, feel and perform your best!