What’s the Difference Between a Raisin and a Grape? Water!

Did you know that our body is made up of around 60% water? 

So proper hydration is vital for every function in our body. Particularly as we age because our body doesn’t retain moisture as well. The sex hormone estrogen makes it easier for our tissues to retain moisture, so as we transition into menopause and levels of estrogen drops, so does our body moisture.

Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, joint inflammation, mood swings, brain fog and forgetfulness. Other symptoms include drier, more brittle hair and nails, skin that is flaky, dry, and itchy. Headaches are common, as are constipation and bloating. Sounds fun ha! Not!

Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink water – if you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. (Drink up!)

I wrote this blog for those of you who aren't drinking enough water - been there, done that! So, check out these nine reasons to stay hydrated all day long, every day. You may be surprised and see that some of your symptoms improve and that has to be a good thing – right?

Reason #1: Water is free (or at least close to free). And I don’t just mean that in the monetary sense. If we’re talking calories…
Water is hands-down the best beverage to choose because it has zero calories.

Reason #2: Water promotes weight loss. Have you ever noticed that sometimes when you think you’re hungry, a big glass of water satisfies the urge to chow down? Very often, thirst is mistaken for hunger, and though you think it’s time for a big, juicy burger, what you really need is a nice, tall glass of ice water.

Reason #3: Water helps you poop. 

The American Journal of Gastroenterology published a study concluding that water has a bigger impact on your ability to pass waste than the amount of fibre you eat! Now, I’m certainly not saying that fibre isn’t important, but if you want to have good poops, you have to drink plenty of water. 

Reason #4: Water makes you smarter, happier, and more fun to be around. 

Many headaches are actually related to dehydration. Since our brains are about 75% water, they need lots of fluid to properly function. Without water, it’s like your brain is “drying out,” and that can cause painful headaches.

Reason #5: Water drinkers have better skin. We all want this don't we ladies?

Now I’m not a scientist, I don’t know exactly why this is the case, but I have experienced it firsthand. I have known women that in the past, only drank drinks like Diet Coke, diet beer, or diet cocktails (aka vodka soda). When they made the switch to drinking mostly water (with a few adult beverages sprinkled in here and there), their skin drastically improved. 

So what are you waiting for?

Reason #6: Water speeds up your metabolism. 

According to a study published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, “researchers estimate that over the course of a year, a person who increases his water consumption by 1.5 litres a day would burn an extra 17,400 calories, for a weight loss of approximately 2.2kg (5 pounds).” Uh, is that enough reason for you? It is for me!

Reason #7: Water helps release toxins in your body.

This will definitely help liver function and during menopause this is critical to helping to eliminate and regulate hormones. Another good reason to drink up ladies!

Reason #8: Water is a superhighway with no traffic! 

It is the primary method of nutrient transportation through your body. Drink more water and your nutrients will more easily be able to float around in a lovely sea of good health – your body.

Reason #9: Water increases energy. 

Fatigue is very often related to dehydration because your body simply cannot function properly without it. Remember at the beginning I mentioned that as we age our body doesn’t retain moisture as well. Feel like you’re dragging in the afternoon? Have a big glass of water, see how the perks you up.

If you need any more convincing after that, you just might be a lost cause! Go forth and drink more water!

Some daily tips to get you started

• Filtered water is best.
• Upon waking have at least 1-2 glasses of water before doing anything – try adding some lemon and apple cider vinegar to get things moving!
• Drinking 500ml of water, at least 30 minutes before a meal may lead you to consume less calories during your meal.
• Drinking little and often is much better for you than gulping down big glasses of water all at once.
• Drink most of your water intake in the morning, before 2pm.
• Stop drinking at least 2-3 hours before bedtime.

For more tips and support throughout your midlife journey - come and join our FREE Women's only private Facebook group, the Women's Wellness Hub. This group has an amazing community of like-minded women all going through this journey together. 

Looking forward to seeing you on the inside. Join today!