We know hydration is important but are we actually hydrating when we down 2+ litres of plain water daily? Let's discuss the importance of true hydration & ways we can achieve it to maximize performance & feeling our best!
As a fitness trainer and yoga teacher, I cannot emphasize enough the critical role that hydration plays in our overall health and well-being. Or how the lack of being properly hydrated hinders our mood, exercise performance, disrupts our digestion, organ function & cognitive function. Hydration is not just about drinking water; it's about nourishing our bodies with the essential minerals and electrolytes needed to function optimally, especially during exercise and periods of increased sweating.
Water is indeed the elixir of life, essential for maintaining bodily functions such as temperature regulation, nutrient transportation, and waste removal. However, when we sweat, we lose not only water but also vital electrolytes like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are crucial for muscle function, nerve signaling, and hydration balance. Plain water can further dehydrate you, especially if you're super active. A body properly hydrated with the right balance of water and minerals will perform better during exercise, allowing for improved endurance, strength, and stamina. Proper hydration enhances circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to working muscles more efficiently while flushing out metabolic waste products, reducing the risk of fatigue and cramping.
Adequate hydration supports internal functions beyond exercise performance. It promotes healthy digestion, skin radiance & clarity, kidney function, and our body's natural detoxification processes, helping to maintain optimal organ function and cellular health. Hydration also plays a vital role in cognitive function and mood regulation, as dehydration can impair concentration, focus, and overall mental clarity.
It's so important to START your day (YES BEFORE COFFEE) with hydration especially since we tend to lose it overnight via our breath. I like to start with 1 litre of warm water (so I don't shock my digestive system) with half a lemon squeezed plus a pinch or two of Redmond salt
While water is the primary source of hydration, especially during physical activity, it's essential to replenish electrolytes lost through sweat to maintain hydration balance. Electrolyte-enhanced water can be valuable additions to your hydration routine, providing the minerals needed to support optimal performance and recovery. I personally like Organika Electrolytes & LMNT - use this link & get a free sample pack! Coconut water, bone broth & herbal teas also all count towards daily hydration!
Additionally, incorporating hydrating foods into your diet can contribute to overall hydration levels. Fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and strawberries, can help keep you hydrated while providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Prioritizing hydration is a foundation to your overall wellness. By ensuring adequate water intake and replenishing electrolytes lost through sweat, we can optimize performance, enhance recovery, and support overall well-being from the inside out. Remember, a well-hydrated body is a happy, healthy, and vibrant one. Let's drink up and nourish ourselves from within!