posted on November 3, 2017
Hydration is important whether you’re highly active or enjoy the slow paced side of life. In general, staying hydrated tends to be overlooked as a method of fueling workouts before they begin. Rather than feeling so thirsty you have to chug water, the goal to keep in mind is to sip on water throughout exercise.
How to fuel up on water before hitting the gym:
When you feel hungry, drink water first. Sometimes hunger is confused with thirst, but true hunger will not be satisfied by drinking water. For exercise lasting longer than 90 minutes, it may be beneficial to have a sports drink on hand. Taking in excessive amounts of water without sodium dilutes the body, creating an electrolyte imbalance. A sports drink can help regulate how much water the cell holds to maintain hydration. Note: the caloric and sugar content of sports drinks tend to be similar to that of drinking a soda and there are fewer benefits of consuming a sports drink during short duration or non- exercise.
Why hydration matters:
How much water you should drink depends on height, weight, and activity levels. Thirst isn’t always a good indicator of hydration especially in higher altitudes or dry environments that don’t cause sweating. Pay attention, rather, to the color of your urine. Other foods and drinks can help you stay hydrated, too! Fruits, vegetables, soup, tea, and coffee can all contribute to your daily water intake.
Warning Signs Your Body is Lacking Water:
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