I am always talking about how, “hydration is key” to your health and wellness, but why is hydration so important? If you have fitness goals you are trying to achieve, you will want to continue reading.

Water makes up a large part of our bodies- about 60%! It’s crucial that you are constantly replenishing the water you lose throughout the day. When you don’t, your body won’t function optimally.

Water helps carry nutrients to your cells, keeps your skin looking healthy, and aids in digestion. Drinking enough water is essential for maintaining a healthy body weight and reducing bloating.

 

Here are a few more benefits of getting enough H2O:

1. Burn more fat

If you’re trying to lose weight, drinking water can help your body burn more fat. The process of breaking down fat in the body requires water. The first step in breaking down fat is called hydrolysis, which essentially adds water to fat to break it down. Without the presence of water it’d be physically impossible for your body to break down fat.

 

2. Increase your metabolism

In addition to breaking down fat, the amount of water you consume on a daily basis can actually increase the rate of your metabolism. A study done by the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that drinking 16oz of extra water increased metabolic rate by up to 30% in both men and women.

3. Reduce your appetite

Adequate hydration can also reduce your appetite. This is because water will help you feel full and you’re less likely to overeat. If you find yourself struggling with overeating, it’s important to drink water before meals. You will notice you’ll have better control when you don’t feel starving thanks to being hydrated.

 

4. Detoxify your body

Water is essential for our bodies to function properly. It supports the kidneys and helps get rid of toxins. If you’re not drinking enough water, your kidneys can’t work at their best and you may start to retain water. This can lead to feeling bloated, puffy, and unwell. We’ve all been there- feeling sluggish, achy, and just generally “off.” When you’re properly hydrated, you will feel better and have more energy. If you find yourself struggling to get through your workouts or everyday activities, it’s probably because you aren’t hydrated.

So, how can you make sure you’re getting enough water? I always keep a water bottle with me so I can sip on it throughout the day. I also start my day off drinking a bottle of water, before anything else.

If you struggle with getting enough water in everyday, you can try tracking your water intake. There are water bottles you can buy, and apps you can use, to make this easier.

It is recommended that you drink half of your body weight, in ounces, per day, minimum. So if you are working out and sweating consistently, it is very important you drink more than that. If you drastically need to increase your intake to get to this amount, I suggest easing into it slowly by adding an extra cup or so every few days.

If water is too plain for you, or you prefer to drink juices or sodas, try infusing your water with fruit, cucumber, or mint to make it more exciting!

Next time you’re feeling tired or sluggish, reach for a glass of water instead of coffee or an energy drink. Your body will thank you!