AN EASY WAY TO BOOST YOUR HAPPINESS AND PRODUCTIVITY

A new survey found that staying hydrated throughout the day could be linked to more than just clearer skin and better breath. It can be hard to make sure you are drinking enough water, but there are numerous reasons to prioritize staying hydrated. We dove into the research and include some simple tips on how to make sure you get what you need.

Put it on ice

The study found that 56% of respondents said they won’t drink water unless it’s cold, since room temperature water is generally less appealing. 45% of Americans also reported that having a chilled beverage was the second most “satisfying” feeling, behind having a perfectly firm (or soft) pillow. Want to incentivize drinking water or make it more satisfying? Put it on ice.

Carry a water bottle

Bring a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go – google image

Bring a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go, even if you aren’t leaving the house. Having hydration at arms reach allows you to sip all day long, which can help up your intake without even realizing it.

Choose seltzer over soda

Get your fizzy fix without the added sugar by choosing seltzer instead of a soda or energy drink. Drinks with a lot of added sugar actually dehydrate you, and are a major source of empty calories in our diets. Seltzers come in a variety of flavors, and can help you stay hydrated when you want to switch it up from plain water. Also, try opting for herbal tea instead of coffee for your afternoon pick-me-up as the weather cools down.

Munch on hydrating foods and flavor your water

Your body is able to absorb water from the foods that we eat – google image

Staying hydrated is not all about beverages, your body is able to absorb water from the foods that we eat. Foods that have a high water percentage include cantaloupe, strawberries, spinach, watermelon, peaches, bell peppers, and cucumbers. Adding a few lemon slices, strawberries, or cucumbers to your water can add a whole new taste. Try adding frozen blueberries as ice cubes.

Set reminders

If you are having trouble being consistent with drinking water throughout the day, try setting reminders on your phone or computer. This will help you get in the habit of reaching for water at least every hour, so eventually you won’t need the reminders at all. If you haven’t gotten up to use the restroom in several hours, it is another good indication you may not be drinking enough.

We all could use an easy way to boost your happiness and productivity to close out this year. Recent research has shown an easy (and free) way to do this is by making sure you are consistently getting enough water. There are several tips and tricks that can help you stay on track with hydration, from eating plenty of produce to bringing a reusable bottle wherever you go. Though more research is needed to establish a relationship between happiness and hydration, there are plenty of good reasons to drink up today.

Source: eatingwell, thewaterway, sentara

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