You already know drinking water is important, but getting enough can be a challenge.
Sometimes, getting specific about the benefits of a healthy habit can help give you the push you need to stay committed.
Here are eight benefits of drinking water to help you stay motivated to keep sipping.
1) Drinking water saves you money
Water is free, or close to it, and saves you money compared to soda, juice, iced tea, or other bottled drinks.
2) Water helps keep you regular
Along with fiber, water is an important part of helping you go to the bathroom regularly and pass waste efficiently. This helps reduce bloating.
3) Water can prevent headaches
Get this – when you don’t drink enough water, the brain temporarily shrinks, pulling away from the skull and causing painful headaches. Definitely a good motivator to refill your cup.
4) Water helps speed up your metabolism
If weight loss is a goal, a study was done that showed that drinking about 50 ounces of water increased the metabolic rate.
Do this every day and you’ll burn enough calories to lose five pounds in a year just by drinking water.
5) Water can help you make better food choices
Thirst is often mistaken for hunger, so you end up eating when you’re not actually hungry.
When you stay hydrated, you can stay more in tune with your body’s hunger cues.
6) Water can help you focus and feel happier
Research has shown that even mild dehydration can affect your ability to concentrate, your performance on tests, and your mood.
7) Water increases energy
Because our bodies are 60% water, you can’t function properly without it. If you’re feeling sluggish, try a big glass of water (and a brisk walk outside for bonus points) and see how much better you feel.
8) Water helps you move
Dehydration causes muscle fatigue and loss of coordination. Increase your water intake before your exercise for better performance.
With all of these great benefits in mind, I hope you’ll feel motivated to drink your water!
References:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3786707
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22190027
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/04/120417221621.htm
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14979888
http:///www.acefitness.org/fitfacts/pdfs/fitfacts/itemid_173.pdf
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