With the great weather forecast and desire to enjoy the outdoors, don’t forget the importance of staying hydrated! Hydration is essential year-round for so many reasons, but if you are finding yourself outside more – walking, gardening, hiking, or simply taking in some vitamin D from sitting in the sun, staying hydrated is key.
Water is crucial to all of the body’s key organs and their functions. For example, water helps bring nutrients to cells (you know, the nutrients your body receives when you eat fruit), gets rid of waste in the body, maintains body temperature, and so much more. Likewise, when you exercise, your body loses lots of fluids, both good and bad, so you need to replenish your body’s water sources.
However, water may not be everyone’s go-to drink even though experts say it should be. If water is not your favorite, make it more enjoyable by adding fruit to your water! People add many different types of fruit to their water from citrus fruits to berries. Each offers various health benefits while keeping your body hydrated.
Many fruits, such as berries, have anti-inflammatory properties which can reduce the risk of diseases such as diabetes or dementia. These same fruits are known to boost immunity due to the antioxidants and vitamins they provide. Other fruits such as lemons and grapefruits (find them in your office kitchen this week stocked by ThirdLeaf NW‘s team!) are known to support digestion while decreasing bloating and constipation. Finally, an intake of water is known to boost skin health, but adding fruits to the mix provides the body with more antioxidants that fight oxidative stress which often leads to breakouts. A greater water intake plus nutrient-rich fruits is a recipe for glowy, supple skin and overall hydration. Keep up the water drinking, friends!