Posted by John Brackett | Posted in Optimal Nutrition, Personal Energy | Posted on 08-10-2009
We’ve all heard it before: the classic “8 glasses of water a day” statement. Is there any truth behind that at all? Absolutely not. Hydration differs from person to person, but it is one of the most important factors in your health and energy levels. In fact, many people are severely dehydrated and have no idea! Dehydration is one of the most common culprits of chronic fatigue, low energy and negative emotions.
Think about the difference between a plump, juicy grape and a shriveled raisin. Essentially, that’s the hydration factor! So the goal is always to maintain that optimal level of hydration in our bodies, with the highest quality water possible. But how do we go about doing that? If it’s not 8 glasses a day, what is it?
The answer is that it depends on a number of factors – it isn’t cut and dry! One important factor is how much raw food you eat, especially fruit. Since raw foods hold all of their original water content, you get high-quality water from fresh fruits and vegetables just by eating them. This, of course, cuts down your hydration needs significantly. The single best habit you could get into, no matter what your dietary intake, is likely to begin every day with a glass of pure, clear water. To hydrate yourself every morning after a long rest, where your body naturally uses up a great deal of the water available, is one of the number 1 ways to boost your energy and start every day out feeling great. This is certainly a habit I’ve picked up and experimented with – and its been absolutely phenomenal.
The other secret to hydration is spacing it out. Your body can only handle so much at a time, just like with food. If you stuff yourself once a day on food, you can’t expect to be full the whole day and stay balanced. The same goes for water: the more you space it out and have just a glass here and there, the better your hydration levels. That morning glass is the most critical, but throw in a few more throughout the day in between meals. Not only will your energy levels balance out and remain high, but you’ll curb your appetite. Many people experiencing hunger are actually chronically dehydrated but don’t realize their bodies are screaming for water!
Just a quick post this week, I’m heading out the door for Vermont in less than 10 minutes! Leave me a comment below and tell me about your hydration routine. What have you found to work best for you personally?
Unleash Your Vitality,
John Brackett
hey johnny,
you’re right – staying hydrated is soo critical to feeling well and energetic. i’ve been waking up to a pint of water for a while now and it just gets you going. think of how thirsty you would be after an 8 hr shift at work without water. its basically the same for you body after sleeping 8 hrs!
I agree with all contained in this article. If you’re going to New Hampshire you should detour over to Maine and pay us a visit. I’ve tolg your Grandparents that before also. Carol
John, i really appreciate the hydration post. I’ve recently been drinking more water and have been trying to exercise at least 30 minutes a day and i have found that my energy levels are up.
Also, to any college students out there, water is also important on the weekends! Heavy alcohol consumption can lead to severe dehydration as we all know, yet it seems that not that many people are drinking water when they go out. If i plan on doing any sort of drinking i always pack a few bottles of water (for others as well) and plan a safe trip for myself, even if that means walking. Remember once you get back home, if you are still feeling intoxicated, pound a bottle of water or two before going to bed and you probably will feel a lot better in the AM! – Beej
It’s great to see everyone on board with this one, I see so many people skip out on water almost completely yet reach for soda without a second thought! I like that point about how long 8 hours without water really is, and also really appreciate that last comment for college students. Feel good but take some responsibility for yourself!
John