Are you drinking enough water? Odds are that if you have to ask that question, you’re not.
You should be drinking at least 64 ounces of water a day, which equates to about eight full-sized glasses of water. Drinking the proper amount of water is good for your body. However, did you know that drinking more water can help you lose weight?
Following a water schedule (I have a great one in my book) and drinking at certain times can help curb your appetite. You will avoid the dreading situation of overeating at meals when your stomach is already full. You can also ensure you’re staying properly hydrated before and after you exercise.
Developing a Water Schedule
Learning the optimal times to drink water is key for better digestion and overall health. To figure out the proper amount of water you should drink each day, take your weight in pounds, divide it in half, and that number in ounces is what you should drink each day.
Don’t only drink when you’re thirsty. Drink even when you’re not. By the time your body tells you that it’s thirsty, you’re already dehydrated. Setting a consistent schedule will ensure you don’t reach that dehydration point. If you are a more active person or pregnant be sure to increase your hydration as well.
If you exercise, be sure to hydrate before, during, and after your workout. You need to hydrate effectively so you don’t feel uncomfortable or get cramps during your workout. Drink a glass of water at least 30 minutes before your workout and sip water during.
Drinking more water for weight loss may seem counterproductive, but it’s not. Many people can carry up to four pounds of water weight. If your body isn’t getting enough water, it will hold onto whatever it has. Drinking more will enable your body to let go of the water stores and flush it out.
Ideal Times to Drink Water
When you get up in the morning, drink one or two glasses of water. Since you’ve been sleeping all night, you’re already dehydrated, and you want to start the day off right. Once you’ve hydrated yourself, go grab your morning cup of Reishi coffee or tea.
To curb overeating, drink a large glass of water at least 30 minutes prior to your meal. The water you drink will stimulate the receptors in your stomach, giving your brain the message that you are full.
Many of us experience a decrease in energy in the afternoon and often reach for a sugary snack or cup of coffee. Not only will additional caffeine that late in the day impact the quality of your sleep, but it’s also not good for you. Grab a glass of water instead as you may be experiencing dehydration.
When it comes to bedtime, don’t drink a full glass right before you go to sleep. Stop drinking water at least 2 hours before bedtime. Have a glass of water nearby in case you wake up thirsty. You don’t want to disturb your sleep by having to get up multiple times to go to the bathroom, so just take small sips of water.
Elevate Your Water Game
Drinking water all day can begin to feel a bit tedious and unexciting. If you get bored with the taste of water, consider adding in some herbs and fruits. There can be some benefits to drinking infused water, besides tasting great.
Adding in fruits or herbs is a low calorie and natural option to flavoring your water. If you have the craving for a soda or other type of sugary drink, add in some natural flavors instead. You will end up drinking more water.
Some good combinations to add to your water are watermelon and mint, cucumber and mint, strawberry and basil, and pineapple and ginger. You can cut up the ingredients the night before and have them ready in a pitcher in your fridge. The longer they soak in the water, the stronger the flavor.
There are also specific water bottles you can use that have a built-in infuser. Pick out a special stainless or glass water bottle to drink out of during the day that is a fun color or design. There are also bottles that have trackers down the side, letting you know where you are in your water drinking progress.
Track how many bottles of water you need to drink each day, so you stay on top of your hydration. The goal is to drink as much water as possible.
Health Benefits of Water
Staying hydrated and developing a water schedule is an important first step in the weight loss process. Get in a routine of drinking water at certain times to help rid your body of all the extra water weight it carries around, as well as aiding your digestion and detoxification.
Up leveling your lifestyle habits and food strategy are essential aspects of losing weight as well. Are you ready to get started on the path to a healthier you?
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