Wednesday, December 19, 2012

You need to drink the same amount of water year round — and maybe even more in the winter.

In cold weather, your body has to work harder to humidify the air you breathe and to warm it up, meaning that you need to drink more water and eat more if you are outdoors. A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 4 quarts a day, but many people will drink twice that under high exertion levels or over 10,000 feet of altitude.



Psychologically, it’s easy to skip hydration breaks during winter activities because you are less likely to feel thirsty. But the consequences are much higher, as dehydration can accelerate hypothermia, frostbite or fatigue.Therefore, you need to pace yourself accordingly and drink and eat at frequent intervals to keep up with the demands of your body. I always carry a watch with me outdoors, and make a habit to drink and eat at regular intervals.
You need to drink the same amount of water year round — and maybe even more in the winter.  Even though it feels like you aren't sweating as much as you do during the Summer, your body still loses a lot of water during the Winter from day-to-day activities like breathing, staying warm, and urinating. Winter activities like skiing, sledding, and even snowball fights can also lead to dehydration. Know the signs of dehydration so you can respond accordingly. If you are experiencing dizziness, headaches, constipation, or dark eye circles, quickly guzzle up some water.

Dry, nippy weather can leave skin cracked and flaky, but water does promote skin circulation and can help plump up your skin. While applying a hydrating moisturizer can help make skin smooth and supple, adequate water consumption is key for flake-free skin.
Keep reading for the health reasons to keep water handy in Winter.
In order for your body to fight illnesses, you body has to create mucous, which requires sufficient water to produce. Mucous membranes act as a barrier to catch and destroy harmful bacteria and viruses that want to enter your body.

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Dry weather sucks up moisture quickly, which is why your lungs, throat, nose, and lips feel incredibly dry when you wake up on Winter mornings. You should use a humidifier in your bedroom to keep your lungs and nasal passages lubricated. That way, your active mucous membranes can protect your body from outside invaders.

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